AMS Release No. 013-03

Becky Unkenholz (202) 720-8998

becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

Billy Cox (202) 720-8998

billy.cox@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, June 23, 2003 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced a final decision amending the Upper Midwest Federal Milk Marketing order. Under the decision, provisions that were previously implemented on an interim basis will be made permanent.

This final decision continues to prohibit the ability to simultaneously pool milk on the Upper Midwest Federal milk order and on a State-operated milk order that has marketwide pooling. It also continues to limit the amount of milk that can be diverted to nonpool plants from pool distributing plants regulated under the order.

This decision requires determining producer approval. USDA will conduct a vote on the amended order. If producers approve, a final rule will follow to implement these changes on a permanent basis.

For additional information about the decision, contact: Paul H. Kyburz, Upper Midwest Market Administrator; USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs; Suite 210, 4570 West 77th St., Minneapolis, MN 55435-5037; Telephone (952) 831-5292; or e-mail pkyburz@fmma30.com.