The focus is on training and cutoff application dates for new dicamba formulations.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture issued a Special Local Need label for two remaining new dicamba formulations — Fexapan and Xtendimax — in 2018, calling once again for mandatory certified applicator training and cutoff dates.
Last month, the department released its special use label for BASF’s Engenia. These two new labels came after conversations with Monsanto and DuPont. Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn says the three entities were able to reach a compromise that was “proactive and provides certainty for farmers as they make their decision for 2018.” All three labels contain the same restrictions.
Here are the requirements:
• Restricted-use pesticide. These products are for sale to and use ONLY by certified applicators. Non-certified applicators are prohibited from applying this product.
• Training. Prior to the purchase and/or use of the product, certified applicators must complete mandatory dicamba training provided by the University of Missouri Extension, which will be available soon. Training verification must be presented to the retail establishment, pesticide dealer or distributor.
• Dicamba Notice of Application form. Certified applicators must complete an online Dicamba Notice of Application form daily, prior to each application. The blank Dicamba Notice of Application form can be found at agriculture.mo.gov/dicamba/notice.
• Application timing. The product cannot be applied before 7:30 a.m. or after 5:30 p.m.
• Cutoff date. Use of Fexapan, Xtendimax and Engenia in dicamba-tolerant soybeans and dicamba-tolerant cotton is prohibited after June 1, 2018, in the southeast Missouri counties of Dunklin, Pemiscot, New Madrid, Stoddard, Scott, Mississippi, Butler, Ripley, Bollinger and Cape Girardeau. In all other counties, use of these products with dicamba-tolerant soybeans and dicamba-tolerant cotton is prohibited after July 15, 2018.
Applicator needs
To obtain a certified private applicator license, individuals must complete certified private applicator training provided by the University of Missouri Extension. Training programs are offered throughout the year; individuals should contact their local county Extension office.
If you are a pesticide applicator engaged in the business of applying pesticides for hire in exchange for a fee or other compensation, you must obtain a certified commercial applicator license through the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
For more, visit agriculture.mo.gov/dicamba.