(From Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby)Harvest season has always been one of the busiest and most expensive times of year for the farmers and ranchers who keep southwest Missouri moving. This year the fuel bills made it even harder.
Diesel prices climbed so high that many producers were looking at thinner margins just to get crops out of the field and livestock to market. Governor Kehoe responded with two executive orders that give our agricultural community some practical, temporary relief.
The first order, signed at the end of September, allowed farmers and farm-licensed trucks to use red-dyed diesel on Missouri state highways for agricultural work and raised the weight limit for certain loads of livestock, grain, timber, and other harvest products. The second order, signed October 9, expanded that relief so any vehicle can use dyed diesel on state roads through the end of the year. It also kept the higher weight allowance in place. Both orders suspend the usual penalties that normally apply when dyed fuel is used on public roads, and they line up with the federal action taken earlier this month.
For producers in Jasper and Newton counties, the difference is straightforward. Many of our poultry, cattle, and hay operations already keep dyed diesel on the farm for tractors and equipment.
For producers in Jasper and Newton counties, the difference is straightforward. Many of our poultry, cattle, and hay operations already keep dyed diesel on the farm for tractors and equipment.
Being able to put that same fuel in the trucks that haul birds, cattle, or grain to market, and to carry a bit more weight per trip, means fewer miles driven and less money spent at the pump during the weeks when every dollar counts. The orders are temporary and expire December 31, but they give families who grow and raise the food we all depend on a little more room to operate while fuel costs remain high.
I appreciate the governor’s willingness to act quickly for Missouri agriculture. In District 32 we know what it takes to get a crop or a load of livestock from the farm to the buyer. These steps help keep that process moving without adding more cost. As always, if you have questions about how the orders apply to your operation or if there’s something else the state can do to support our farmers and ranchers, contact my office. We’re here to help.
I appreciate the governor’s willingness to act quickly for Missouri agriculture. In District 32 we know what it takes to get a crop or a load of livestock from the farm to the buyer. These steps help keep that process moving without adding more cost. As always, if you have questions about how the orders apply to your operation or if there’s something else the state can do to support our farmers and ranchers, contact my office. We’re here to help.
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