PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden issued an executive order to help farmers cope with high diesel prices during harvest season. Still, the move is receiving mixed reviews from agricultural leaders.
The order allows producers to haul crops, livestock, and other agricultural products at up to 10 percent above normal weight limits and temporarily waives a 25-dollar overweight permit fee.
State officials say the goal is to reduce transportation costs and provide additional flexibility during harvest. The order also expands overweight allowances beyond field-to-bin trips to include deliveries to elevators, feedlots, and other agricultural facilities.
However, South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke says the measure does little to offset diesel prices that are averaging around six dollars per gallon. He points to neighboring Nebraska, where producers are eligible for temporary diesel tax refunds during harvest season.
The executive order comes as farmers continue to face rising fuel costs and other economic pressures. Governor Rhoden’s office says it is reviewing additional options that could provide further assistance to producers.
