ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Mark Dayton today issued
Executive Order 17-02 lifting road and vehicle restrictions for Minnesota farmers helping ranchers in other parts of the country affected by wildfires. Governor Dayton’s executive order will be in effect through Saturday, April 8, 2017.
Wildfires across Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas have consumed more than 1.15 million acres. A significant portion of the land is grazing pastures for cattle and horses. Preliminary estimates show that more than 10,000 cattle have already been lost in the region. This Executive Order will ease restrictions for loads of hay ready to move out of Minnesota and allow for more aide in the days and weeks to come.
“Minnesota farmers are some of the most generous people I know; however, unusual measures are required in order for help to arrive in this time of need,” said Ag Commissioner Dave Frederickson. "Governor Dayton’s Executive Order will ensure that these donations quickly get to the people and animals that need this hay the most.”
Because of these wildfires, Minnesota farmers are eager to donate hay to ranchers in the four states to alleviate livestock losses. Currently, loads of donated hay are staged in areas throughout Minnesota, and are waiting to be moved out of state. Drivers can now begin transporting the hay with the Governor’s Order.
“The need for this executive order is acute, and we are prepared to put things into motion immediately,” said MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle. “The sooner we can get the donated hay to where it is needed, the better.”
The Executive Order will:
· Lift size and weight restrictions for drivers of motor vehicles providing direct emergency relief;
· Suspend a required permit needed transport oversized and overweight loads of hay and other forage; and,
· Suspend a required permit on vehicles hauling such loads.
The Executive Order will also allow drivers delivering hay from other states to easily pass through Minnesota and on to the states affected by the wildfires.
If Minnesota farmers would like to donate hay or make a monetary donation to ranchers in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, they can contact the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association at 612-618-6619 or go to
www.mnsca.org/resources.
