Dispute Over Pest Control Threatens Racing Season
A pest control order has sparked controversy in British Columbia’s horse racing community, as trainers and owners at Fraser Downs racetrack fight against what they call an unnecessary and damaging shutdown. The closure, ordered by Great Canadian Entertainment (GCE), aims to tackle a worsening rat infestation, but horse owners warn that it could derail months of preparation for the upcoming racing season.
Racing Industry Faces Uncertainty
Located in Surrey, British Columbia, Fraser Downs is the province’s only standardbred racing facility, making it essential for training and competition. With preparations for the fall harness season set to begin soon, local horse owners argue that the closure will severely impact both animals and livelihoods.
- Training for young horses is scheduled to begin July 1.
- Races are set to kick off on September 4.
- The Harness Racing B.C. (HRBC) warns that the delay could jeopardize the entire racing meet.
“Without Fraser Downs, our members have nowhere else to go—there are no alternative training facilities in B.C.,” said Donna Scrannage, a horse owner and vice president of HRBC, speaking to the CBC.
HRBC states in its legal challenge that more than 200 industry members depend on year-round access to Fraser Downs, including 75 to 100 workers whose livelihoods are directly tied to horse training and racing schedules.
Closure Timeline Sparks Concern
According to a GCE memo, horses were initially required to vacate the property by May 9, with the pest control operation expected to take 60 to 90 days. The deadline was later extended to May 30, but even with a tentative reopening set for August 15, Scrannage insists that the schedule is unworkable for horse owners.
Disagreement Over Pest Control Method
The HRBC disputes the necessity of a full closure, proposing an alternative pest control solution that would allow horses to remain on-site.
- HRBC claims GCE plans to use poison over a prolonged period.
- Instead, HRBC suggests carbon monoxide fumigation, which could eliminate the rodents in a single day, allowing horses to return much sooner.
However, GCE stands firm, stating the shutdown is essential for health and safety. Chuck Keeling, a vice president at GCE, defended the move in a statement, accusing HRBC of interfering with necessary pest control measures.
“We intend to vigorously defend the litigation so that we can ensure the health and safety of HRBC members, our team members, and guests,” Keeling said.
What’s Next?
As Fraser Downs horse owners take their fight to court, the dispute underscores broader concerns over racehorse welfare, economic stability, and industry regulations. The resolution of the case will determine whether the fall harness season proceeds as planned—or faces disruption due to the ongoing pest control battle.
