New herbicide labels require understanding

Wesley Everman says he's available anytime to help Iowa's farmers understand and navigate new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements tied to herbicide regulations - particularly those connected to the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Everman, an Iowa native who joined Iowa State University in November 2024 as assistant professor and Extension weed specialist, said recent changes in herbicide labeling - as well as forthcoming shifts involving insecticides and fungicides - require farmers' attention heading into this growing season.

The new labeling requirements stem from legal challenges regarding herbicide registration and the ESA.

"The quick version … the EPA got sued because they weren't following the rules of labeling and checking with other agencies to make sure herbicides wouldn't cause any ill effects," Everman explained. "The judge said, 'Well, if you didn't do it, none of these labels are ...