EPA Seeks Comment on Proposed Decision to Register Dicamba for Use on Genetically-Engineered Crops

EPA Seeks Comment on Proposed Decision to Register Dicamba for Use on Genetically-Engineered Crops The EPA is proposing to register dicamba to control weeds in cotton and soybean genetically engineered (GE) to tolerate dicamba. Weeds that are becoming increasingly resistant to glyphosate-based herbicides are posing a problem for farmers. If finalized, EPA’s action will provide an additional tool to reduce the spread of glyphosate resistant weeds. To ensure that dicamba successfully manages weed resistance problems, the proposed decision outlines a Herbicide Resistance Management Plan which includes robust monitoring and reporting any suspected resistance to EPA, grower education and remediation. Additionally, EPA is proposing to limit the registration to 5 years, which would further provide protections if resistance to dicamba develops. EPA is soliciting public comment for 30 days. Comments on the EPA’s proposed regulatory decision must be submitted no later than April 30, 2016. Comments may be submitted to the EPA docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2016-0187 at www.regulations.gov. After the comment period closes, EPA will review all of the comments and reach a final decision, which the Agency expects to issue in late summer or early fall 2016. Questions and Answers about this proposal are available.