MADISON, WI (OnFocus) – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is inviting public comments on two proposed special pesticide registrations aimed at addressing persistent weed challenges in carrot and strawberry production across the state.
The proposals, which involve the herbicides Lorox® DF and Stinger®/Stinger® HL, would grant conditional approval for specific uses not currently permitted under standard federal pesticide labels. These registrations are part of DATCP’s efforts to provide growers with targeted tools to manage local pest issues where federally registered options fall short.
Lorox® DF for Carrots in Sandy Soils
DATCP is accepting comments through April 29, 2025 on the proposed special registration of Lorox® DF, manufactured by Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc., for use in carrots grown on sandy soils. While the product is already registered in Wisconsin, its application in sandy soils currently requires special approval due to environmental concerns.
The herbicide, which contains the active ingredient linuron, would aid in controlling difficult broadleaf weeds such as common ragweed and Eastern black nightshade. These weeds have become increasingly problematic in carrot fields, particularly in the Central Sands region. The proposed registration would include specific restrictions in areas with shallow groundwater—less than 30 feet deep—based on soil organic matter content.
If approved, this would mark the second special registration for Lorox® DF, lasting through December 31, 2029. No adverse effects were reported under the previous registration, and a preliminary environmental review concluded that a full assessment is not required.
Stinger®/Stinger® HL for Strawberries
Comments are also being accepted through April 28, 2025 regarding the proposed special registration of Stinger® and Stinger® HL, herbicides produced by Corteva AgriSciences, LLC. These products, containing the active ingredient clopyralid, would be permitted for single-season applications in strawberry fields to combat broadleaf weeds like dandelion, Canada thistle, bull thistle, and perennial clovers.
The application is prompted by a formulation change by the manufacturer and marks the fifth special registration for the use of these herbicides on strawberries. As with the Lorox® DF registration, no adverse effects were reported from previous uses, and the preliminary environmental assessment found no need for a full review. The proposed approval would extend through December 31, 2029.
Public Participation
Members of the public are encouraged to submit written comments by the respective deadlines to be considered in the final decision-making process. Comments and requests for the environmental assessments can be sent to:
Alyssa Foss, DATCP
PO Box 8911
Madison, WI 53708-8911
Email: [email protected]
About Special Registrations
Special pesticide registrations allow states to authorize additional uses of existing pesticide products to address local needs, without requiring prior federal approval. This mechanism supports growers in managing unique pest issues, including outbreaks and competition from weeds or diseases, when no suitable federally registered solution exists.
For more details on the special registration process, visit datcp.wi.gov.
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Author: News Desk
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