The hunter from Birch Hills, Sask., is pursuing a hobby but also helping Saskatchewan farmers wage an ongoing battle against a persistent pest they know all too well. A Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation initiative that connects producers with sportsmen has made the seasoned hunter an active participant in an unconventional alliance between farmers and hunters. “I contacted Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation last year regarding their, I call it, ‘guns for hire,’ because I ran out of time to go out and shoot the gophers myself,” the grain and cattle producer said with a laugh. Just like all forms of hunting, Smaha said the work requires patience and an understanding of animal behaviour. “This program for the landowners, it’s a great program that the government and the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation has put together,” he said.