Arkansas Agriculture Department Proposes New Pesticide classification for Feral Hog Control & Updates to Catfish Processor Regulations
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LITTLE ROCK, AR – December 18, 2025 – The arkansas Department of Agriculture (ADA) is seeking public comment on proposed rule changes impacting both feral hog management and catfish processing regulations within the state. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to address the growing feral hog population and streamline regulations following recent legislation.
Feral Hog Control: Introducing Class J Pesticides
The ADA proposes a new classification for pesticides used to control feral hogs. Under the proposed rules, pesticides containing warfarin, when used as a feral hog intoxicant, will be designated as “Class J.” This classification is authorized by arkansas Code 20-20-206.
This new categorization will be accompanied by requirements for dealers and applicators, including mandatory training, licensing, detailed recordkeeping, and specific use restrictions related to Class J pesticides. The goal is to ensure the safe and effective use of these products while minimizing potential risks to non-target species and the surroundings.Warfarin is an anticoagulant, meaning it prevents blood clotting, and is used to control rodent and, in this case, feral hog populations.
The Arkansas State Plant Board approved the draft rule changes on December 8, 2025. The department emphasizes the need for more aggressive feral hog removal efforts due to the continued spread of the invasive species across Arkansas. Feral hogs cause significant agricultural and environmental damage, estimated at millions of dollars annually USDA National Feral Swine Damage Assessment.
Repeal of Catfish Processor Regulations
In addition to the pesticide rule changes, the ADA intends to repeal existing regulations concerning catfish processors. This action follows the enactment of Act 577 of 2025, wich altered the regulatory landscape for catfish processing in Arkansas. Specifically, the previous requirements for auditing and registration of catfish processors will no longer be enforced.
Public Comment Period
The public comment period for these proposed rule changes began on December 14, 2025, and will remain open for 30 days. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their comments through the ADA’s website: https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/resources/public-information/notices/. Following the comment period,the Plant Board will review the feedback and present final drafts to the Arkansas Legislative Council for further review.
Analysis & Keyword Definition:
- Core Topic: Proposed changes to Arkansas agricultural regulations concerning feral hog control (through pesticide classification) and catfish processing.
- Intended Audience: Arkansas farmers, agricultural businesses (pesticide dealers, catfish processors), landowners, hunters, environmental groups, and the general public interested in Arkansas agricultural policy.
- user Question: What regulatory changes are being proposed by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, and how can the public provide input?
Optimal Keywords:
* Primary Keyword: arkansas Agriculture Regulations
* Secondary Keywords:
* Feral Hogs Arkansas
* Pesticide Regulations arkansas
* Catfish Processing Arkansas
* arkansas Department of Agriculture
* Class J Pesticide
* Act 577
* Agricultural Regulations
* Public Comment Arkansas
* Warfarin (as it relates to feral hog control)
* Arkansas State Plant Board
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