The ten percent weight-limit increase was prompted by heavy rains and their affect on farmers’ ability to harvest crops in many areas of the state. Governor Jay Nixon made the announcement Wednesday during a visit to BioZyme in St Joseph.
“Many farmers are seeing record harvests this year, but heavy rains over the past few weeks are making it harder for thenm to get these valuable crops out of the fields,” Governor Nixon said.
“With the prime harvest season underway, this emergency waiver will provide timely and much-needed relief to farmers affected by these conditions.
“Without action to help them harvest more quickly, many Missouri farmers faced the possibility of real financial hardship — despite producing strong yields of corn, soybeans and other crops. I thank the Missouri Department of Agriculture and MoDOT for working together to support Missouri farmers and keep this vital sector of our economy moving forward.”
The waiver will remain in effect for the next 60 days. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers are limited to a loaded, gross weight no greater than ten percent above the gross licensed weight of the commercial motor vehicle. The changes affect transport of commodities from the farm to another facility, transportation between facilities and empty return trips on non-interstate highways within the State of Missouri.
MoDOT requires those drivers to slow down to 30 miles per hour when crossing a bridge, and to yield to oncoming traffic on bridges.