By Kurt Vollmer
Syngenta recently announced it will stop manufacturing Gramoxone at the end of June. The product contains paraquat, a widely used herbicide for controlling weeds before planting, at planting and post-directed after crops emerge. Paraquat is an important tool for managing tough weeds, including herbicide-resistant weeds such as Palmer amaranth. Only the Gramoxone brand of paraquat will be discontinued. Based on current estimates, Gramoxone supplies should be adequate for 2026, but growers may want to begin exploring alternative brands.
Other paraquat brands may not be labeled for all the applications listed on the Gramoxone label. For example, only certain formulations allow post-directed applications in cucurbit crops such as watermelon. Because labels vary, fruit and vegetable growers should carefully review each paraquat label and follow all state requirements before applying.
Upcoming UME Events!
University of Delaware and University of Maryland Launch Free Virtual H-2A Farm Labor Seminar Series
The University of Maryland Extension (UME), the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics (AREC), and the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension will host a free virtual seminar series titled “Exploring H-2A Farm Labor in the Mid-Atlantic Region.” The three-part series will take place from March 31 through April 21, 2026, and is designed to help agricultural employers better understand the complexities of the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program.
As labor challenges continue to impact agricultural operations across the region, the H-2A program has become an increasingly important option for securing seasonal workforce needs. This seminar series will provide participants with practical insights into the financial, legal, and regulatory considerations associated with the program.
“Producers are facing increasing pressure to secure reliable labor, and the H-2A program can be a valuable tool when used correctly,” said Paul Goeringer, Principal Faculty Specialist and Extension Legal Specialist with the University of Maryland. “This seminar series helps farmers understand not just the costs, but also the legal and compliance responsibilities that come with participating in the program.”
Source : umd.edu