E.P.A. Proposes Allowing Use of Dicamba Weedkiller on Some Crops

The Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) has proposed allowing the use of the weedkiller dicamba on certain crops, despite a federal court's ban on some of its uses last year. Dicamba is known to drift into neighboring fields, potentially damaging crops that are not resistant to the herbicide. The E.P.A.'s proposal aims to provide farmers with additional tools to combat weeds, particularly those that have become resistant to other herbicides. However, this move has raised concerns among environmental groups and some farmers who have experienced crop damage from dicamba drift in the past. The agency's decision comes after extensive consultations with stakeholders and a review of the available scientific evidence. The E.P.A. claims that the proposed use of dicamba can be done safely, with appropriate safeguards in place to minimize the risk of drift and damage to neighboring crops. The issue remains controversial, with ongoing debates over the balance between weed control and environmental protection. The E.P.A.'s proposal is now open for public comment before a final decision is made.