BASF and Monsanto Comment on Dicamba Bans

DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton reported on Friday that, “Arkansas and Missouri both took action Friday to ban the use of dicamba-mix herbicide applications in their respective states after waves of complaints from farmers who were not using the technology.

“DTN reached out to both BASF and Monsanto for comment on the bans. The companies responded late in the afternoon.

“BASF’s statement focused on the Arkansas ban. A company representative had testified before the joint Agriculture committees early Friday.”

The DTN article noted that, “‘We disagree with the Arkansas statewide ban on dicamba applications. This decision was made despite hearing testimony from many of the state’s growers opposed to the ban and who are using the product with success,’ BASF stated.

BASF defended its herbicide technology despite nearly 600 complaints about drift contamination, mainly in the eastern part of the state. BASF stated that banning Engenia ‘needlessly punishes growers who have successfully and lawfully used the product, while failing to provide an effective deterrent to growers who may be willing to ignore the ban. In addition, the ban fails to address the need for effective enforcement of label requirements for Engenia’s use.'”

In his article Friday, Mr. Clayton indicated that, “Monsanto also issued statements regarding the Arkansas and Missouri bans.

“Monsanto noted, ‘Farmers are the lifeblood of our company.’ Monsanto stated the company focused on helping farmers be successful and many of its employees have ties to the farming communities. Monsanto stated the company is concerned about reports of potential crop injury.

“However, Monsanto stated the company is opposed to banning dicamba. ‘We sympathize with any farmers experiencing crop injury, but the decision to ban dicamba in Arkansas was premature since the causes of any crop injury have not been fully investigated. While we do not sell dicamba products in Arkansas, we are concerned this abrupt decision in the middle of a growing season will negatively impact many farmers in Arkansas.'”

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