EPA Proposes Registration of Picarbutrazox, a New Fungicide Active Ingredient

For Release: December 28, 2020

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to register the new active ingredient picarbutrazox, which represents a new tool for managing resistant fungi.

Uses of picarbutrazox include seed treatment of corn and soybean to control Pythium and Phytophthora and turf treatment to control Pythium diseases. These fungi can cause foliar blight, damping-off, and root dysfunction, which in turn can cause significant yield losses. Picarbutrazox provides yield benefits comparable to registered alternatives.

EPA reviewed picarbutrazox and determined there are no human health risk concerns. To prevent misuse, the label recommends that professional applicators make residential turf applications.

The proposed product label contains language to address potential ecological risks, including advisory language to prevent off-site movement to non-target areas due to runoff, and resistance management strategies to reduce the potential for fungicide resistance.

EPA is accepting public comments on this proposal via docket number EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0653 at www.regulations.gov for 15 days.