Trapping is most effective with small populations of gophers. Use traps in autumn or spring. Autumn is usually the best time to trap because gophers are most active. Traps should be set at freshly worked tunnels. Several types of gopher traps may be purchased at most hardware stores, including specially designed traps that kill the gophers.
Success depends upon the proper use of the traps.
Fumigants or gases can be used with small to medium-sized populations. Most are effective in wet heavy soils where the gases remain in the burrow system to asphyxiate or suffocate the animals. None are recommended for light sandy or dry soils where the gases rapidly dissipate out of the tunnels. Several types of fumigants can be used. Contact your local county Extension office for more information.