Release No. 134-06

Becky Unkenholz (202)720-8998

Becky.unkenholz@usda.gov

Billy Cox (202) 720-8998

Billy.cox@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 6, 2006 - The U. S. Department of Agriculture today announced a final decision that adopts amendments to the pooling provisions of the Mideast milk marketing order that were previously discussed in a recommended decision. This decision is based on testimony and evidence given at a public hearing held in Wooster, Ohio, March 7-10, 2005.

The amendments recommended for adoption will:1) establish a limit on the volume of milk a handler may pool during the months of April through February to 115 percent of the volume of milk pooled in the prior month; and 2) establish a limit on the volume of milk a handler may pool during the month of March to 120 percent of the volume of milk pooled in the prior month.

USDA will conduct a vote on the amended order to determine producer approval. If producers approve the order as amended by this final decision, a final rule will follow to implement these changes on a permanent basis.

For additional information about the decision contact:

David Z. Walker

Market Administrator

USDA/AMS/Dairy Programs

P.O. Box 5102

1325 Industrial Parkway North

Brunswick, Ohio 44212

Tel. (330) 225-4758; email: dwalker@fmmaclev.com