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.
Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
·
Wind repowering offers a rare opportunity to renegotiate outdated leases and improve long-term land income for landowners who act early.
January 16, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Rep. Erin Houchin of Indiana discusses how the Affordable Homes Act will benefit rural communities, and her broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing.
January 15, 2026 03:04 PM
·
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
January 15, 2026 12:51 PM
·
From “right to repair” to investigations into the “Big Four” meatpackers, antitrust issues were a major legal topic in 2025 and promise to have a long-term impact on the agriculture industry in the future.
January 15, 2026 12:05 PM
·
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
January 14, 2026 01:49 PM
·
