Release No. 234 -04

Becky Unkenholz (202)720-8998

becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

Billy Cox (202) 720-8998

billy.cox@usda.gov

Washington, D.C., Nov. 18 , 2004 – The U. S. Department of Agriculture today announced a final decision that will amend provisions of the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast Federal milk marketing orders, on an emergency basis. This decision is based on testimony and evidence given at a public hearing held Oct. 7, 2004, in Atlanta, Ga.

This final decision will implement a temporary supplemental charge on Class I milk that will be disbursed to handlers who incurred extraordinary transportation costs for moving bulk milk to maintain the Class I needs of the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast orders because of hurricanes in August and September.

The final decision will be published in the Nov. 19 Federal Register. USDA will conduct a vote on the amended orders to determine producer approval. If producers approve the orders as amended, a final rule will follow to implement these changes. Additional information about the decision may be obtained from these market administrator offices:

Appalachian: Harold H. Friedly

USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs

P.O. Box 18030, Louisville, KY 40261-0030

Tel. (502) 499-0040; e-mail: friedly@malouisville.com

Florida and Southeast: Sue L. Mosley

USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs

P.O. Box 491778, Lawrenceville, GA 30049

Tel. (770) 682-2501; e-mail: smosley@fmmatlanta.com