AMS-255-04

Becky Unkenholz (202) 720-8998

becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

Billy Cox (202) 720-8998

billy.cox@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 10, 2004-- The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced a final rule that amends the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast milk marketing orders. Dairy farmers approved the amended orders through the polling of cooperatives.

The final rule will implement a temporary supplemental charge on Class I milk to be disbursed to handlers who incurred extraordinary transportation costs for bulk milk movements to meet the Class I needs of the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast orders as a result of hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne.

The final rule appears in today’s Federal Register and becomes effective today as well.

Additional information about the rule may be obtained from these market administrator officee:

Appalachian: Harold H. Friedly

USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs

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

Tel. (502) 499-0040; email: 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