UPL’s TOP DECK herbicide gains California approval for aquatic vegetation control

UPL Ltd. has received approval from California regulators for the use of its TOP DECK herbicide, addressing a long-standing gap in aquatic vegetation management across the state. This approval enables applicators to target problematic aquatic weeds in diverse environments such as non-crop areas, industrial sites, rights-of-way, and aquatic sites.

Designed to manage a range of invasive and nuisance plant species, including submerged, emerged, floating, and shoreline weeds, TOP DECK offers control of key species like grasses, cattails, phragmites, and water lilies. The formulation also stands out due to its lack of restrictions on livestock watering, fishing, swimming, or other domestic uses—a feature likely to be valued by those working in environments with sensitive water-use requirements.

For industry professionals, this registration is a significant addition to the limited number of herbicides available for managing aquatic weeds in California. TOP DECK provides an alternative to traditional products, such as glyphosate, delivering effective weed control while addressing concerns related to safety and environmental impact.

Kevin Jabkiewicz, UPL’s Marketing Manager for Environmental Solutions, explained that the approval is part of UPL’s strategy to offer specialized solutions for complex environments. TOP DECK’s mode of action provides a vital tool for applicators who need to manage vegetation without interrupting local water use or impacting wildlife, while offering broader control over invasive species that disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

By offering a herbicide with both flexibility and targeted action, UPL is contributing to more efficient and effective weed management solutions that align with evolving environmental regulations and industry standards.

With operations in more than 130 countries and a comprehensive portfolio of agricultural products, UPL continues to expand its reach, providing products tailored to local regulatory frameworks and the specific needs of industry professionals.