Release No. 145-05

Becky Unkenholz (202) 720-8998

Becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

Billy Cox (202) 720-8998

Billy.cox@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 26, 2005 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced a tentative partial decision that recommends various amendments to current provisions of the Mideast Federal milk marketing order. This decision is based on testimony and evidence given at a public hearing held on March 7 – 10, 2005, in Wooster, Ohio.

This decision adopts proposals to amend certain features of the pooling standards of the Mideast milk marketing order on an interim final and emergency basis. Specifically, this decision will: 1) SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1prohibit the ability to simultaneously pool the same milk on the Mideast Federal milk order and on a marketwide equalization pool administered by another government entity; 2) lower the diversion limit standards; and 3) increase the performance standards for supply plants.

At a later date, USDA will issue a separate decision to address proposals to deter the de-pooling of milk, adopt transportation credits and clarify the Producer definition of the order.

The decision will be published in the July 27 Federal Register. Interested persons have 60 days to file comments in response to the tentative partial decision. USDA will determine if producers approve the amended order.

For additional information about the decision contact: David Z. Walker, Market Administrator; USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs; P.O. Box 5102; Brunswick, Ohio, 44212; Tel. (330) 225-4758; e-mail: dwalker@fmmaclev.com.