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EPA blocks request to extend dicamba application

The EPA is taking steps to block a request from North Carolina to extend dicamba use for tolerant soybeans and cotton. EPA says there is insufficient information available to show dicamba could be used after its cutoff date without causing adverse effects.

States have to go through a more rigorous review process to extend dicamba application under the stricter 24(c) review process issued by the EPA in October.

The agency tells Brownfield while extensions would enhance grower flexibility, application after the established deadlines would cause ‘unreasonable’ harm on the surrounding environment and neighboring crops. The EPA says no new data has been made available since it set the application deadlines in October that would justify an extension. 

EPA issued its October decision after a court vacated its 2018 ruling that found the EPA understated the risks of dicamba. EPA’s decision could potentially impact other states seeking to extend their dicamba application dates.