Dicamba Regains Approval, But Is It Too Late?
February 9, 2026 On February 6, the EPA reauthorized the use of dicamba herbicide for over-the-top (OTT) application for the 2026 growing season. The popular weed control system centered around dicamba had lost its re-registration back in 2024 after a court decision vacated this approval.
Once the news broke that dicamba OTT was coming back, agricultural trade groups were ecstatic.
“We appreciate EPA moving forward with a new dicamba label and recognize the importance of maintaining access to this tool for soybean farmers,” said Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association (ASA) and an Ohio soybean grower. “Farmers need clear, workable rules that accurately reflect how we farm. We look forward to reviewing the final label and hope it incorporates the feedback ASA and its state affiliates provided to ensure dicamba remains a practical option within a responsible, science-based weed management system.”
Daren Coppock, President and CEO at the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), had a similar view.
“ARA applauds EPA’s recent decision that preserves the safe use of OTT dicamba while maintaining workable, label required mitigation measures for commercial applicators,” said Coppock. “ARA members have a strong record of responsibly managing dicamba applications and advancing the implementation of precision ag technologies that help growers control resistant and hard to manage weeds. OTT dicamba remains an essential tool for protecting yields and supporting soil health and environmental sustainability in cotton and soybean production.”
However, despite having the ability to use dicamba in OTT application this year, some in the marketplace question whether EPA’s reapproval is coming too late in the decision-making process for most growers.
Loading ...“The fact that it is not out there now will limit its reach,” says Amy Asmus, Co-Owner of Asmus Farm Supply, an independent ag retailer headquartered in Rake, IA. “We are sitting down with our growers now and making 2026 plans. Once they purchase these plans, the idea of us going back and changing them without a specific pest threat in mind is remote.”
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