June 02, 2011
MoDOT, Ag Work to Allow Overweight Loads
Farmers in some areas of Missouri are carefully watching the Missouri River and adjacent waterways in light of upriver reservoir releases. Many farmers have grain and livestock in areas threatened by rising floodwaters and possible levee breaches.
"In light of recent heavy rainfall and high river levels, we want to give producers every opportunity to move livestock, supplies and equipment to higher ground," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "With the increased threat of flooding, it is vital that Missourians monitor the situation and take any necessary precautions to protect their lives and livelihoods."
The Missouri Department of Agriculture requested, and the Missouri Department of Transportation agreed, to allow heavier than normal loads of farm commodities from flooded areas to safer storage. Farmers, private and for-hire motor carriers may carry up to 10 percent more than their licensed weight on Missouri highways. However, the heavier loads are not allowed to use interstate routes.
Overweight permits will not be required. All other traffic and motor carrier regulations that normally apply remain in place. This waiver is in effect between noon, Thursday, June 2, 2011 and noon, Thursday, June 30, 2011. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers are limited to:
- A loaded, gross weight no greater than ten percent (10%) above the gross licensed weight of the commercial motor vehicle;
- Transport of commodities from the farm to another facility, transportation between facilities and empty return trips all within the State of Missouri.
- When crossing a bridge, the driver must restrict the vehicle speed to no more than thirty miles per hour (30 mph) and must center the truck between two lanes of the bridge. The truck driver must yield to oncoming traffic.
- Travel on highways other than Missouri interstate highways - NO TRAVEL IS ALLOWED ON MISSOURI INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS.
All travelers are advised to visit the MoDOT Traveler Information Map at http://www.modot.org/ for up-to-date road closure information.
For more information on the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit http://www.mda.mo.gov.
The Missouri Department of Public Safety has also waived some restrictions in light of recent and anticipated events as follows:
Emergency Declaration Summary 11-03 (Extended)
Effective May 23, 2011 to June 7, 2011
In response to severe spring storms affecting Missouri, the Missouri Department of Public Safety has issued an emergency declaration to waive certain federal regulations under the authority of 49 CFR 390.23, for carriers who participate in emergency relief efforts.
While this declaration is in effect, participating carriers are relieved from compliance with 49 CFR parts 395 (hours of service regulations).