NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is shifting its approach to over-the-top (OTT) dicamba applications on dicamba-tolerant cotton and soybeans. Instead of calendar-based cutoffs, the agency has proposed a new system tied to temperature forecasts, requiring applicators to use data from the National Weather Service or NOAA.
The new labels move away from past state-imposed cutoff dates and instead rely on daily and next-day temperatures, according to Nicholas Brown with the North Carolina State Extension Service.
- Applications are permitted when both forecasts remain below 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with 20 fluid ounces of volatility reducing agent (VRA) required.
- Between 75-85 degrees, the VRA requirement doubles.
- At 85–95 degrees, applicators must either reduce treated acreage by 40 percent or eliminate tank mix partners, still including a VRA.
- Any forecast of 95 degrees or higher prohibits use altogether.
The EPA says the changes simplify compliance compared to the past 40-page labels, though state regulators caution that shifting from date cutoffs may complicate planning. If finalized, the new labels could apply for the 2026 growing season.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Farmers will need to closely monitor forecasts, as temperature cutoffs replace fixed spray dates. Planning flexibility may be reduced during hot spells, making compliance more weather-dependent.
Acreage shifts could influence spring marketing decisions.
March 18, 2026 11:20 AM
·
Corn and sorghum exports continue outperforming soybeans.
March 18, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Farm Legal expert Roger McEowen discusses new dicamba regulations, compliance requirements for growers, and the evolving outlook for herbicide use.
March 17, 2026 01:52 PM
·
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain disruptions, rising costs, and the potential impact on agriculture as farmers navigate ongoing global uncertainty.
March 17, 2026 12:53 PM
·
For producers, the cost of doing business is no longer determined solely by feed, fuel, and weather—it is increasingly a matter of navigating the differing legal philosophies of every state line they cross.
March 17, 2026 10:00 AM
·
American Soybean Association President Scott Metzger discusses his recent testimony before the Senate Ag Committee, key priorities for soy growers, and his outlook for farmers into spring planting.
March 16, 2026 04:36 PM
·
