Missouri Cattlemen’s Association expresses concerns with proposed emergency pesticide rule
The Missouri Department of Agriculture held a public hearing March 21 regarding a proposed emergency rule restricting pesticides. The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association presented concerns about the rule that would stop sales of 2,4-D between April 15 and October 1 in Missouri. MCA Executive Vice President Mike Deering said cattle producers have utilized 2, 4-D for decades.
“This broad prohibition of the sale of 2, 4-D is layered with unintended consequences. Cattle producers use these products to spot spray thistles and other broad-leaf, invasive weeds without causing harm to vital forage for their livestock,” said Deering. “There is no evidence that we have been made aware of that using these products to control weeds in pastures has caused any problems whatsoever. Requiring Missouri cattlemen who have been using these products without issue for decades to acquire an applicators license is unnecessary and without purpose.”
Deering also stated concern about the potential impact on Missouri businesses.
“It is our belief that imposing a statewide stop sale on these products will not get at the heart of the stated problem,” said Deering. “Producers will still be able to purchase the products out-of-state or online, delivered to their farm or home. This leads us to conclude that this could have a negative impact on small businesses in our state.”
The Department’s goal is to prevent off-label pesticides from drifting onto neighboring property and damaging other crops. The concerns stem from the usage of Dicamba that reportedly damaged several thousand acres of soybeans. Deering acknowledged the Department’s efforts on Dicamba.
“MCA truly appreciates the proactive approach of the Missouri Department of Agriculture. The rapid response to the Dicamba issue did not go unnoticed by this association. Above all, the education and outreach was thorough and effective,” said Deering.
No one presented supporting testimony for the 2, 4-D component of the emergency rule, but MCA was joined in expressing concerns by several other associations including, Missouri Agribusiness Association; Missouri Corn Growers Association; Missouri Soybean Association; MFA Inc.; and Missouri Pork Producers Association.
