How to Keep Gophers Out for Good (Long-Term Prevention Guide)

You've handled the infestation. The traps worked. Now the question is… how do you keep gophers from coming back? True prevention takes more than filling holes—it means building long-term barriers and maintaining conditions that gophers hate. Here's exactly how to keep your yard protected for good.

1. Seal and Compact Old Tunnel Entrances

After gophers are removed, the empty tunnels can attract new ones.

✓Fill tunnels with soil and compact firmly.
✓Water the area lightly to collapse any hidden spaces.
✓Avoid leaving soft, aerated soil—it's an open invitation for new activity.

✓Pro tip: mix in small gravel near the surface layer to discourage digging.

2. Keep Perimeter Soil Tight

Gophers often enter from property edges, fence lines, and open easements. Create a compact soil barrier around the perimeter using these steps:

✓Walk the edges with a tamper or heavy roller twice a year.
✓Avoid deep watering or tilling near fences.
✓Plant low-maintenance shrubs or decorative rock borders as physical deterrents.

The harder the soil, the less likely they'll invade.

3. Use Root Barriers for New Plants

If you're planting trees or garden beds, install ¼-inch galvanized hardware cloth 18–24 inches deep. It keeps gophers from reaching new roots while allowing water to drain.

This is one of the simplest long-term investments to protect your landscaping.

4. Schedule Maintenance Visits

Even with barriers in place, migrating gophers can test your defenses. That's why many clients choose quarterly maintenance services from Gopher Champs.

Our team performs fast inspections, resets preventive traps, and ensures that new activity is stopped before damage occurs.

5. Inspect After Heavy Rain or Irrigation Changes

Saturated ground collapses tunnels, forcing nearby gophers to relocate. Check your yard 24–48 hours after heavy watering or storms.

If you spot fresh dirt or open holes, call (951) 330-7399 for a quick inspection.

6. Stay Consistent

The biggest mistake homeowners make is assuming one successful treatment is the end of it. Gopher control is like lawn care—it works best when maintained.

Our 60-Day Warranty covers new activity quickly so you can stay ahead of future invasions.