EPA Extends Dicamba Registration; Additional Restrictions

The Environmental Protection Agency made its long-awaited decision on extending dicamba use. The agency extended the over-the-top application of dicamba through the 2020 growing season while adding some additional usage restrictions.

Acting EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said in a press release that the agency understands just how valuable a tool dicamba is for farmers to battle pest problems. “By extending the label for two more years with additional label restrictions to the product, we’re providing certainty for all stakeholders ahead of the upcoming growing season,” he says. Among some of the changes to the label, only certified applicators may make over-the-top applications. Those working under the supervision of a certified applicator may no longer make over-the-top applications.

The new label prohibits over-the-top application on soybeans 45 days after planting, with no cotton applications allowed 60 days after planting. The label drops the limit of over-the-top applications on cotton from four to two, while the number of allowable over-the-top applications on soybeans will stay at two. The label will also deal with other topics like enhanced tank clean-out instructions, as well as buffer requirements.

Source;  NAFB News