Story perspectives

Paraquat Spill Closes Highway 97, Sparks Shelter-In-Place

8/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 17, 2026, a 140-gallon tank fell from a Macy’s Flying Service truck in Dorris, California, releasing about 50 gallons of paraquat, closing Highway 97, ordering shelter-in-place, with no injuries.
California phased out paraquat registrations, with manufacturers canceling by early August 2026, though dealers may sell for up to two years.
State law mandates a paraquat reevaluation by Jan. 1, 2029 after the Department of Pesticide Regulation canceled the registration on Aug. 6, 2026.

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Story summary

On March 17, 2026, a 140-gallon tank fell from a Macy’s Flying Service truck in Dorris, California, releasing about 50 gallons of paraquat, closing Highway 97, ordering shelter-in-place, with no injuries.
California phased out paraquat registrations, with manufacturers canceling by early August 2026, though dealers may sell for up to two years.
State law mandates a paraquat reevaluation by Jan. 1, 2029 after the Department of Pesticide Regulation canceled the registration on Aug. 6, 2026.