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What fluorosurfactants can be used in Forestry weed control practices? #922971

Asked December 18, 2025, 6:25 PM EST

A popular class of surfactants are used as adjuvants accompanying herbicide use. According to literature I can find on the subject, these fluorosurfactants are often preferred due to their superior wetting, spreading, and foam-controlling abilities over sulfur-based chemicals. Additionally, some common herbicides, according to brand, also contain fluorine-containing ingredients, whether or not the active ingredient is fluorine-based. As you are likely aware, many fluorine containing chemical do not degrade over time, and can bio-accumulate. Of particular concern are PFOA and PFOS, together classed as PFAs. Does OSU Extension have a list, or can it develop a list of herbicide-related chemicals registered for, or used in conjunction with, Forestry activities? Thank you for your prompt reply, and any follow-up you can supply me, or can post for public interest.

Benton County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi Jim,

My apologies for the delay in response. I was assigned this question while already on holiday vacation. 

OSU Extension does not have a list of approved forest chemicals at this time. This list changes annually as pesticides are registered and removed. The Oregon Department of Agriculture is the regulatory entity on this topic and has a pesticide search, where you can enter chemical name or type and see if it's still active for forestry usage. I understand that this is not ideal and may not be easy to use for some folks.

ODA pesticide search tool and restricted use pesticide list: https://www.oregon.gov/oda/pesticides/pesticide-product-information/pages/search-registered-pesticides.aspx

I invite you to read Chapter 6 (Forest Chemicals) in Trees to Tap: Forest Management and Community Drinking Water Supplies. There is quite a bit of information on approved forest chemicals used in Oregon forest management, including a bit on surfactants.

Chapter 6:https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/extd8/files/2023-06/EM9295-Chapter%206.pdf

Another great resource is Bruce Kelpsas' continuously updated PNW Weed Management Handbook. Bruce updated his forestry chemicals PDF in March of 2025 and it outlines optimal chemicals for different treatment types and by seasonality and species of concern. You can find that here: https://pnwhandbooks.org/sites/pnwhandbooks/files/weed/chapterpdf/forestry-hybrid-cottonwoods.pdf

You are also able to search the FERNS e-notification system run by the Oregon Dept of Forestry to see what types of chemicals folks are using. All pesticide applicators are required to submit a FERNS notification 15 days before the operation. 

Take care, Replied December 29, 2025, 1:58 PM EST

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