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Dicamba

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture investigates complaints and allegations of chemical misuse, including those related to dicamba. Each year, the Department receives numerous complaints naming suspected chemicals; however, inspectors must conduct on-site evaluations based on symptomology and review records before confirming the specific chemicals involved. Since 2015, the Department has focused significant efforts on investigating and, in some cases, prosecuting dicamba-related complaints due to their higher volume.

Dicamba Use in Arkansas for 2026

Applicators must follow federal and state law, the requirements and restrictions of the pesticide label, and state rules when applying dicamba. Anyone who fails to comply may be subject to civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation, as well as possible suspension or revocation of their applicator license. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture conducts routine inspections throughout the state to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements for pesticide sale and use.

Where the federal label is more restrictive than the state rules, the label must be followed.

Arkansas-Specific Dicamba Requirements

Dealer Requirements

  • Dicamba is a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP)
  • RUP Dealer License required
  • Must maintain records for two years for agricultural use dicamba

Commercial, Non-Commercial, Private Applicator Requirements

  • Must have an applicator license to purchase or use
  • Must maintain application records for 3 years
  • Must complete dicamba-specific training provided by the product manufacturer

Dicamba Use Restrictions

July 1 – October 31
No agricultural use applications are allowed.

April 16 – October 31
Preplant (burndown) applications are prohibited, except for in-crop dicamba products.

April 16 – June 30
Registered in-crop dicamba applications are allowed only under the conditions below:

  • Required Buffers
    • 1 mile in all directions from university or USDA research stations½-mile in all directions from certified crops and specialty crops (comprised of at least 1,000 plants or a value of over $25,000)
    • ¼-mile in all directions from non-dicamba-tolerant crops
  • Application Prohibitions
    • Glyphosate tank mixes are prohibited

Reporting Suspected Dicamba Misuse

If you observe symptoms consistent with dicamba exposure and wish to request an investigation, please complete the Request for Alleged Pesticide Misuse/Drift Investigation form or call 501-225-1598 and ask for the Pesticide Section.

Training and Resources