Throughout the Nice Plains area, “poppers” generally denote a particular kind of wildlife administration instrument: a modified explosive system utilized for prairie canine management. These units, usually containing a detonating compound, are positioned inside prairie canine burrows and ignited, producing a concussive drive. The supposed impact is the collapse of the burrow system, thereby discouraging prairie canine habitation.
The implementation of this management methodology stems from the perceived financial affect of prairie canines on agricultural lands within the Nice Plains. Prairie canines are sometimes seen as pests because of their consumption of forage supposed for livestock and their potential to create hazardous situations for agricultural tools. Traditionally, varied methods have been employed to handle prairie canine populations, with the usage of explosives representing a comparatively current strategy. This methodology is favored by some landowners for its perceived effectivity in rapidly decreasing native populations; nevertheless, its use raises ecological issues associated to non-target species and potential soil disturbance.
