BC investigates deaths of 11 cattle in Cariboo after suspected nitrate fertilizer ingestion; ranchers demand accountability and safety assurances.
Tragedy in the Herd
In British Columbia’s Cariboo region, 11 cattle were discovered dead earlier this week at two separate locations along a forest service road near Quesnel. The findings have prompted a formal investigation into what led to this sudden loss.
Suspicion of Fertilizer Poisoning
According to Kevin Boon, general manager of the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association, preliminary signs point to ingestion of a nitrate-based fertilizer. That compound is commonly applied in forestry cut-blocks to boost tree growth, but in this instance appears to have turned lethal to the livestock.
Timeline & Location
The fatalities were located roughly 400 kilometres north of Vancouver. The rancher whose cattle were affected holds a grazing tenure on Crown land in the area. The incident reportedly occurred just as a contractor, hired by the provincial government, was loading fertilizer onto helicopters near the two sites. Boon says the spill occurred during that loading process, and cattle later consumed the material.
Stakeholder Response
The B.C. Ministry of Forests confirmed it is collaborating with affected parties to probe the cause and prevent further harm. Meanwhile, the Lhtako Dene Nation stated that its lands and natural resources team was informed of the incident late Wednesday evening.
Potential Scale & Emergency Actions
Ranchers fear more cattle may have wandered and also been exposed, but not yet located. The contractor responsible has been made aware of the consequences and is reportedly cooperating. The affected rancher had legal permission to graze until October 15, but Boon emphasized that fertilizer spraying is usually suspended during range use — meaning this event should not have coincided with livestock presence.
Economic, Emotional Toll & Calls for Accountability
Boon estimates the loss at $70,000–$80,000 in market value, but adds the damage goes deeper. These animals are often raised from calves and carry emotional significance for their owners. He and other ranchers are demanding better safeguards — including prior checks with grazing tenures and more stringent communication — before fertilizer operations commence near livestock areas.
