US EPA Closes Comment Period for Dow's Enlist Duo™ herbicide

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has closed the comment period on its proposed decision to register Enlist Duo, the herbicide for use with the Enlist™ Weed Control System.

The close of the comment period comes as farmers across the countryside contend with persistent pressure from glyphosate-resistant and hard-to-control weeds. Weeds now dot farm landscapes across the U.S., often out-growing the crops next to them. Resistant and hard-to-control weeds have more than doubled from 2009, and affect an estimated 70 million acres.

The comment period drew broad support from farmers, university scientists, agriculture associations, members of the public and others. Commenters urged the EPA to move quickly to register Enlist Duo, which will be a key tool for weed resistance management.

In its “Proposed Registration of Enlist Duo™ Herbicide” released on April 30, EPA stated it has a “full and scientifically robust data set on 2,4-D” with respect to human health. Regulatory agencies in more than 70 countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Canada, Japan, Australia and the U.S., have authorized the use of 2,4-D since 2001 using modern regulatory requirements.

The EPA also acknowledged the significant scientific advancements Dow AgroSciences made with Enlist Duo herbicide as it relates to off-target movement. By combining two modes of action, Enlist Duo will help solve the tremendous weed control challenges growers are facing, and it will do so with technology optimized for on-target application.

The EPA is expected to review the comments it has received in the coming weeks, and will then issue its final decision. Pending regulatory approvals, Dow AgroSciences expects to launch Enlist corn and soybeans in 2015.