Burrow Blasting: Carbon Monoxide Gopher & Ground Squirrel Control

Chemical-Free Underground Treatment for Southern California Properties

Burrow blasting is a professional pest control method that uses carbon monoxide (CO) gas injected directly into active rodent tunnel systems to eliminate gophers and ground squirrels underground. It's fast, highly effective, leaves no chemical residue, and is completely safe for pets, children, and wildlife above ground.

Rodent Guys offers burrow blasting as part of our chemical-free gopher and ground squirrel control services throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties. Call 909-599-4711 to schedule service.

What Is Burrow Blasting?

Burrow blasting — also called carbon monoxide treatment, pressurized exhaust treatment, or propane-powered rodent control — works by pumping concentrated CO gas into the underground tunnel network of the target pest. The gas fills the tunnel system and eliminates rodents humanely underground without any surface disturbance or chemical contamination.

The equipment used for burrow blasting generates carbon monoxide from a small propane-powered engine. A technician locates active tunnel entrances, inserts a hose, and pumps CO into the tunnel system while sealing any visible exits. The treatment reaches deep into the tunnel network, including sections that traps cannot access.

Is Burrow Blasting Safe?

Yes — burrow blasting is one of the safest professional rodent control methods available. Here's why:

  • No poison or chemicals — Carbon monoxide dissipates naturally and leaves zero chemical residue in your soil, water, or plants
  • Safe for pets and children — There is no surface exposure risk. CO is applied entirely underground and disperses within minutes
  • Safe for raptors and wildlife — Unlike rodenticide, there is no secondary poisoning risk to hawks, owls, or other wildlife
  • HOA approved — Chemical-free treatment is acceptable in virtually all HOA communities
  • Environmentally neutral — No soil contamination, no impact on groundwater, no risk to beneficial insects or garden plants
  • Burrow Blasting vs. Traditional Trapping

    Both methods are effective and Rodent Guys uses both depending on property conditions. Here's when each is most appropriate:

    Burrow blasting is ideal for:
  • Large properties with extensive tunnel systems
  • Ground squirrel colonies with multiple interconnected burrows
  • Sloped properties where trapping access is difficult
  • Commercial properties, parks, and golf courses needing fast results
  • Properties with active burrow systems near structures or irrigation
  • Traditional trapping is ideal for:
  • Residential lawns with isolated gopher activity
  • Properties where a single gopher is causing focused damage
  • Follow-up treatment after burrow blasting to catch remaining individuals
  • Properties where underground gas application isn't practical
  • Many Rodent Guys service visits combine both methods for maximum effectiveness — burrow blasting for the tunnel network, trapping for any surviving individuals.

    Burrow Blasting for Gophers

    Gophers are the most common target for burrow blasting in Southern California. A single pocket gopher can maintain 200+ feet of tunnels across a property. Burrow blasting treats the entire tunnel network simultaneously — unlike trapping, which targets one section at a time.

    For initial gopher infestations, our technicians assess tunnel activity, locate primary tunnel runs, and apply carbon monoxide treatment. Follow-up trapping may be used to confirm elimination. All gopher control service includes our 60-day guarantee — if activity returns within 60 days, we return at no additional charge.

    Burrow Blasting for Ground Squirrels

    Ground squirrel colonies dig extensive, interconnected burrow networks that are difficult to address with trapping alone. Burrow blasting is particularly effective for ground squirrel control because it treats the entire colony burrow system simultaneously.

    Note: Ground squirrel control does not include a guarantee. Ground squirrels are highly mobile and can migrate from neighboring properties after treatment. We recommend ongoing management programs for properties with persistent ground squirrel pressure.

    Burrow Blasting Cost

    Burrow blasting service is priced based on property size, number of active burrow systems, and pest type. Call 909-599-4711 for a quote specific to your property.

    We also offer monthly and quarterly maintenance programs for properties with recurring activity. Ongoing service is the most cost-effective approach for commercial properties, HOA common areas, parks, and agricultural land.

    Propane Gopher Blaster — Equipment & Safety

    The burrow blasting equipment used by Rodent Guys is operated exclusively by trained technicians. The propane-powered CO generator is designed specifically for professional pest control use and meets all California safety standards.

    We do not rent burrow blasting equipment or offer DIY burrow blasting services. Improper use of CO injection equipment near structures, gas lines, or enclosed spaces can be dangerous. All burrow blasting on your property is performed by a licensed, trained Rodent Guys technician.

    Schedule Burrow Blasting Service

    Rodent Guys provides burrow blasting and carbon monoxide treatment throughout Southern California — Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County.

    Call 909-599-4711 to schedule service or ask whether burrow blasting is the right approach for your property. Same-week appointments are typically available.

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