AMS NEWS RELEASES

Release No. 053 -05

Becky Unkenholz (202) 720-8998

becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 13, 2005 - The U. S. Department of Agriculture today announced a tentative partial decision that recommends various amendments to current provisions of the Upper Midwest Federal milk marketing order. This decision is based on testimony and evidence given at a public hearing held on Aug. 16-19, 2004, in Bloomington, Minn.

This decision adopts amendments to the performance standards and transportation credit provisions of the order. The amendments include: 1) revising the supply plant performance standards so that milk seeking to be pooled on the order demonstrates consistent service to the Class I market; 2) preventing handlers located within the states that comprise the marketing area from qualifying milk located outside of these states; 3) eliminating diversions to nonpool plants outside of the states that comprise the marketing area; and 4) establishing a limit on the receipt by handlers of a transportation credit for milk movements of 400 miles or less.

The decision will be published in the April 14 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: H. Paul Kyburz, Market Administrator; USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs; Suite 210; 4570 West 77th Street; Minneapolis, MN, 55435-5037; Tel. (952) 831-5292; e-mail: pkyburz@fmma30.com.