Arkansas officials created a new classification in the state pesticide regulations for use of warfarin-based toxicants in a broader effort to battle feral pigs. A legislative council approved changes to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s pesticide rules. It created a new Class J pesticide classification for warfarin-based products.

The rule went into effect June 29. Sales or use did not begin immediately, however. Warfarin-based products must be registered by the Arkansas State Plant Board. They also must be restricted to licensed pesticide dealers. Only licensed applicators who complete product-specific training can purchase and apply the products.

Feral pigs are an invasive species, found throughout Arkansas. Officials estimate the annual damage from them to be between $30 and $41 million. Feral pigs affect agriculture, timber, public and private lands, fencing and other infrastructure. They also compete with other wildlife for food sources and are voracious opportunists.

Warfarin-based products are prohibited in Arkansas counties where black bears have been harvested since 2023. The state has several bear hunting zones and seasons. In other counties, the use of warfarin-based products is allowed only between December 1 and March 31. Applicators must keep detailed records for two years.