Can Section 18 fungicides be sprayed in Iowa?
The answer is “yes,” Section 18 fungicides may be used in Iowa. However, the Section 18 label clearly states that the products are approved for the management of ASR only. That is, they are not approved for control of other foliar diseases or plant health benefits. Can Section 18 fungicides be legally sprayed in Iowa before soybean rust is found in Iowa? Again, the answer is “yes.” This answer is different from what was given last year. What exactly is a Section 18 fungicide and which ones currently carry this label? Section 18 fungicides are pesticides temporarily exempt from registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act based on an emergency condition that may cause a significant economic loss by a particular pest problem. During their review of applications for Section 18 emergency exemptions, EPA staff must perform risk assessments related to pesticide exposures through diet, workplace, and the environment. The Food Quality Protection Act requires that a
