Authors: Whitney Brim-DeForest1, Luis Espino1, Roberta Firoved2
1University of California Cooperative Extension; 2Pesticide Regulatory Consultant
After several years of testing and work by the California Rice Commission, the University of California, as well as outside researchers, and with the support of the IR-4 program, a Section 18 has been issued by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation for spot treatment of weedy rice during 2026. SelectMax® (clethodim) is manufactured by Valent USA, LLC. The Section 18 for 2026 is valid through September 30.
The Section 18 is only for the use of SelectMax® Herbicide with Inside Technology™ (EPA Reg. No. 59639-132) (clethodim) on rice for the spot treatment of weedy rice in California. This herbicide can be used as a spot spray only and should not be applied across a field. Please note that all rice is susceptible to clethodim, so it is important to only treat weedy rice plants, avoiding the surrounding rice plants as much as possible.
To use SelectMax® (clethodim), please follow the Section 18 label directions for specifics on the applications. The field needs to be drained prior to application. The Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) is 14 days, so please take note of planned harvest timing before applying.
Growers and Pest Control Advisors who would like to use SelectMax® Herbicide with Inside Technology™ (EPA Reg. No. 59639-132) (clethodim) in 2026 should reach out to their local Agricultural Commissioner’s Office to get the herbicide added to their permit and obtain a copy of the label. Please make sure to follow the label directions and all applicable laws and regulations.