Chlorpyrifos Use Now Limited in South Dakota Fields

By Scout Nelson

As of June 30, 2025, chlorpyrifos, a pesticide once widely used on several crops, can now only be applied to alfalfa, soybeans, and wheat (both spring and winter) in South Dakota. This update comes after a regulatory amendment approved on September 30, 2024, which canceled most food and feed uses of the chemical.

This change means chlorpyrifos can no longer be used on sunflowers or other crops not listed under the approved uses. Only 11 food and feed uses of chlorpyrifos remain approved across the U.S., with South Dakota’s allowed uses being clearly defined.

Importantly, after June 30, 2025, farmers and applicators are not allowed to sell or use any remaining chlorpyrifos products with canceled or changed labels—regardless of what they originally intended to use them for. Any leftover product must be stored following label directions until it is properly disposed of.

To support safe handling and disposal, SDSU Extension offers the guide Managing Waste Pesticides: Restricted Use Pesticides, and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources provides disposal guidelines on its Waste Management in South Dakota page.

Farmers should also review the EPA’s official document, Frequently Asked Questions about the Current Status of Chlorpyrifos and Anticipated Path Forward, for a full list of canceled or changed products and the complete set of approved uses.

Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic