There are significant concerns across many agriculture sectors regarding the potential cost to growers from the loss of certain use patterns of key weed control ingredients, Paraquat and Diquat (eg Sprayseed).
The recommendations from APVMA technical reports will effectively put an end to the existing approved uses of Paraquat and Diquat in vineyards. Paraquat and Diquat agrochemicals have been used for weed control in Australia since the mid 1960’s. The concerns in vineyards are driven by threat of off-target impacts to wild birds and also wild mammals in the case of Diquat. Australian Grape and Wine are working with AWRI and Wine Australia to gain a better understanding of the science behind their recommendations including whether any assumptions have been made in their conclusions relating to risk.
The AWRI has released an e-Bulletin with further information.
The two reviews will be open for consultation until 29 October 2024, during which time feedback can be provided to the APVMA on the proposed recommendations.
Interested parties wanting to seek further information or to make a public or private submission, can do so at Chemical Review Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority
On a more positive note, AWRI have also recently released another eBulletin advising of two new actives that are now available for use against botrytis and powdery mildew.
