The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) announced on Aug. 10, 2026, that all manufacturers of pesticide products containing paraquat-dichloride (commonly known as the herbicide paraquat) have voluntarily cancelled their product registrations in California, initiating a phase-out of paraquat use in the state.

DPR began a formal reevaluation of paraquat in November 2024, and manufacturers began voluntarily cancelling product registrations in April 2026, with the final registrant withdrawing its registration on Aug. 6, 2026.

In California, DPR-licensed distributors may continue to possess and sell voluntarily cancelled paraquat products for up to two years following each product’s effective cancellation date. Growers may continue to use existing products during this period, provided all label requirements and applicable state and federal regulations are followed.

For more information, read the DPR press release here: https://www.cdpr.ca.gov/2026/08/10/dpr-announces-voluntary-cancellation-of-all-pesticide-products-containing-paraquat-dichloride/

This development highlights the importance of continued investment in innovation, research and developing effective pest management solutions that meet the needs of this evolving landscape.