Over the Top Dicamba Application Restrictions | May 01, 2026
Why It Matters
Compliance ensures continued access to dicamba for soybean weed control and avoids regulatory penalties, while proper use mitigates resistance risks critical to long‑term crop productivity.
Key Takeaways
- •Dicamba over‑top use approved for 2026 soybeans, two‑year pilot.
- •Requires 240‑ft downwind buffer and 3‑10 mph wind limits per label.
- •Growers must complete product‑specific training and maintain up‑to‑date pesticide license.
- •Detailed record‑keeping and endangered‑species checks are mandatory for compliance.
- •Nebraska Dept. of Agriculture will intensively inspect applications this season.
Summary
The Nebraska soybean sector is gearing up for the 2026 growing season with the re‑approval of over‑the‑top dicamba products for dicamba‑tolerant soybeans. The EPA has granted a two‑year pilot registration, allowing growers to apply the herbicide again after a hiatus.
The pilot comes with strict label requirements: a 240‑foot downwind buffer must remain clear, wind speeds at boom height must stay between 3 and 10 mph, and temperature thresholds must be met. Growers must verify state registration each season, hold a current pesticide license, complete product‑specific online training, and document endangered‑species protections and runoff mitigation measures.
Mike Straw emphasized that “inspectors may pull you over in the sprayer” and that the Nebraska Department of Agriculture will be actively monitoring compliance. He also pointed producers to the Market Journal crop‑watch article and local water‑crops educators for guidance.
Failure to meet these conditions could trigger penalties and jeopardize the future availability of dicamba, while proper stewardship helps delay herbicide‑resistance buildup. For agribusinesses, the added compliance costs and operational constraints are significant factors in planting decisions.
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