Friday, September 14, 2007
Governor Culver Approves Harvest Weight Limit Exemption
(Des Moines) – Today, in an effort to help farmers move this year’s record corn harvest, Governor Chet Culver signed a proclamation granting a temporary weight limit exemption. This proclamation increases the weigh allowable for shipment of soybeans, corn, hay, straw and stover to 88,000 pounds gross weight without the need for an oversize/overweight permit.
“This was a necessary step,” said Governor Culver. “We’re looking at the largest corn crop in Iowa history—an estimated 12% higher than any other year—and weather concerns have resulted in hastened harvest. As a result, I am authorizing this temporary weigh limit exemption to assist farmers as they work to move this large crop in a small amount of time.”
The proclamation directs the Iowa Department of Transportation to monitor the operation of the proclamation, assure the public’s safety and facilitate the movement of the trucks involved. It is important to note in the wake of the Minnesota bridge collapse that this exemption does not change the lower weight limits as posted on bridges and overpasses and interstate highways in Iowa. Farmers who are transporting grain are also required to follow their vehicle safety standards on axle weights as well.
The exemption will be granted for 60 days beginning on September 14, 2007.