NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 21 • Apply selectively and in a targeted manner. • Avoid application near watercourses or open bodies of water. • Adhere strictly to label instructions. • Ensure applicators are correctly calibrated to avoid over-application. • Avoid repeated application on the same tracer belt in consecutive seasons. • Integrate with manual or mechanical methods wherever feasible. Alternative herbicide options under review – a regulatory update Pelargonic acid (paraquat alternative) Pelargonic acid has been proposed as a potential alternative to paraquat for firebreak preparation. The registration process has experienced delays linked to technical requirements associated with toxicological data submission. Further engagement between TIPWG, the manufacturer and Registrar is underway to assess whether Good Experimental Practice (GEP)- approved Certificates of Analysis may be accepted, considering the plant-based nature of the active ingredient. With the assistance of South African Bioproducts Organisation (SABO), there is cautious optimism regarding the outcome of this process; however, uncertainty remains with respect to timing. At this stage, pelargonic acid should be regarded as a potential future option, rather than one that can be relied upon for immediate operational planning. Glufosinate-ammonium Glufosinate-ammonium is currently subject to the Act 36 derogation process. Both the timing and outcome of this process remain uncertain. Should a derogation be granted, any use would be restricted to Pest Control Operators (PCO) holding a Restricted Use Remedy PCO licence, and all applications would be required to comply strictly with the conditions attached to such approval. Approved Pesticide List (APL) update As part of the current review cycle, work is underway to update the Approved Pesticide List (APL) to provide clearer guidance on the use of glyphosate for firebreak preparation in limited and specific circumstances. This includes identifying which glyphosate products are registered for this purpose, to support consistent interpretation and compliance across the forestry industry. The timing of this update is linked to the broader APL review process and the need to ensure alignment with existing registrations and regulatory requirements. Once finalised, any updates to the APL will be circulated to members. Off-label use and compliance considerations Use of pesticides outside registered label instructions is illegal under Act 36. Off-label use introduces significant risk, including: • Regulatory non-compliance, which may result in enforcement action by the Registrar, including penalties as provided for in the legislation. • Increased fire risk to plantations, neighbouring properties, and human health where products are misused, misapplied, or applied outside approved label conditions. • Potential non-conformances during Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) or Programme for the Endorsement of Forest CertificationTM (PEFCTM) certification audits. The forestry industry has a strong reputation for responsible fire management, and maintaining this standard depends on continued adherence to both legislative requirements and certification standards. Practical considerations for the 2026 fire season Considering the current regulatory and operational constraints, forestry managers and contractors are encouraged to: • Re-evaluate firebreak placement using existing landscape features such as roads, rivers, and previously disturbed areas.
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