Proposed Regulations to Include New Record-Keeping and Fine Structure

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 5, 2018) — The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) has issued guidance that it will propose a new record-keeping system for dealers and fine structure for Kentucky producers related to dicamba in the 2019 season.

The proposed regulations will require dealers to record the purchase of all synthetic auxin pesticides that contain the active ingredient dicamba. They will also establish a fine structure that increases fines for label violations of dicamba products to protect producers from off-target damage that may occur from over-the-top applications of dicamba.

Dicamba, an active ingredient in some herbicides, has strict instructions for use. Any off-target herbicide applications, including those containing dicamba, can damage crops that are not tolerant to the herbicide applied.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires mandatory training for all dicamba applicators. In Kentucky, the training is hosted by the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and product registrants. All training material is approved by KDA. Applicators may contact Cooperative Extension, a supplier, or the product registrant for training options.

Earlier this year, the EPA announced new label restrictions for over-the-top use of dicamba on dicamba-tolerant cotton and soybeans through the 2020 growing season.

For more information about the federal label changes, see the EPA press release.