EPA Reapproves Dicamba Weed Killer for Genetically Modified Crops

Decision sparks criticism from environmental groups over risks to nearby crops and public health

Feb. 6, 2026 at 7:47pm

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The Environmental Protection Agency has reapproved the use of the weed killer dicamba on genetically modified soybeans and cotton, despite concerns over its tendency to drift and damage nearby crops. The agency says dicamba is crucial for farmers battling weeds, but has imposed restrictions to try to manage the risks. Environmental groups argue the restrictions are insufficient and that the decision prioritizes the pesticide industry over public health and the environment.

Why it matters

The EPA's decision to reapprove dicamba for use on two of the most common genetically modified crops will significantly expand its application, raising concerns about the chemical's potential to drift and harm a wide range of plants, as well as its potential health risks to humans.

The details

Dicamba is a common weed killer that can be sprayed on top of genetically engineered crops, killing weeds without harming the crops. While it has been used for decades, its use has become more widespread in recent years. The EPA says it has imposed strong protections and limits on dicamba's use, including restrictions on application rates, hot day usage, and buffer zones. However, environmental groups argue these restrictions are insufficient and that dicamba drift has already damaged vast acreages of other crops, trees, and plants.

  • The EPA reapproved the use of dicamba on Friday, February 7, 2026.

The players

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The federal agency responsible for regulating pesticides and protecting human health and the environment.

Kelly Ryerson

An activist with the Make American Healthy Again movement, which has forged a political alliance with the Trump administration.

Nathan Donley

The environmental health science director at the nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity.

Bayer

A manufacturer of the dicamba weed killer.

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What they’re saying

“A top priority of mine was to have the use of Dicamba for over-the-top applications permanently discontinued because' of their harm.”

— Kelly Ryerson, Activist (sfgate.com)

“When push comes to shove, this administration is willing to bend over backward to appease the pesticide industry, regardless of the consequences to public health or the environment.”

— Nathan Donley, Environmental Health Science Director, Center for Biological Diversity (sfgate.com)

What’s next

Bayer, a manufacturer of dicamba, said the federal registration will allow them to now seek state approvals and launch training for applicators in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The EPA's decision to reapprove dicamba for use on genetically modified soybeans and cotton highlights the ongoing tension between supporting farmers' needs and protecting the environment and public health. While the agency claims to have imposed strong restrictions, environmental groups argue these measures are insufficient to prevent the chemical's harmful drift and impact on surrounding crops, plants, and potentially human health.