This week in California ag regulation
Two DPR rulemaking packages open for comment this week alongside a North Coast enforcement settlement over a January wastewater spill into the Russian River.
DPR proposes electronic submission mandate and fee changes for pesticide registration
DPR proposes to adopt new 3 CCR sections 6170.6, 6170.7, 6170.8, and 6173, and amend sections 6000, 6148.5, 6152, 6153, 6154, 6157, 6170, 6170.5, 6193.5, 6194, 6196, 6206 and 6252, requiring electronic submission of pesticide registration applications, clarifying information requirements, establishing application types, and reducing fees for notifications. Written comments must be received no later than October 5, 2026.
Key date: October 5, 2026: Written comments on pesticide registration rulemaking are due.
DPR proposes visibility requirements for service container labels
DPR proposes to amend 3 CCR section 6678 so that the name and address of the responsible party, pesticide identity, and signal word on service container labels must be prominent and legible, aiming to reduce accidental exposure. The comment period closes October 12, 2026, with mailed comments postmarked by that date.
Key date: October 12, 2026: Comment period on service container labeling amendments closes.
Sonoma Water and sanitation district settle over 4.94-million-gallon Russian River spill
The Russian River County Sanitation District and Sonoma Water agreed to a North Coast Water Board settlement requiring temporary flow monitors, a corrective action plan, assessment of flood-vulnerable maintenance access points, and a study of excess water entering the sewer system, after floodwaters overwhelmed the Guerneville treatment facility starting January 6 and released an estimated 4.94 million gallons of untreated and partially treated wastewater. Several initial plans and assessments are due in September and October, with additional corrective work and reporting continuing through October 2027.
Key date: October 2027: Additional corrective work and reporting under the settlement continues through this date.
State Water Resources Control Board Press Release
DPR sets September 16 date for Sustainable Pest Management Advisory Committee
DPR will hold its next SPM Advisory Committee meeting on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., held virtually. DPR will accept public comment for 15 days immediately following the meeting, through October 1, 2026.
Key date: September 16, 2026: SPM Advisory Committee meeting is held.