For immediate release: November 19, 2009

For More Information Contact:
Adrienne Joseph
715-214-7244
ajoseph@wisconsinfarmersunion.com

WFU thanks Gov. Doyle for declaring propane shortage state of emergency

Chippewa Falls, Wis. (November 19, 2009) - Wisconsin Farmers Union President Doug Caruso thanked Gov. Jim Doyle today for signing a proclamation of energy emergency due to the state's propane shortage.

WFU and other agricultural and energy organizations joined to call upon the governor to declare a state of emergency and to provide temporary relief from the U.S. Department of Transportation's hours-of-service requirements.

Gov. Doyle signed a proclamation Tuesday that provides a two-week federal hours-of-service exemption to commercial-vehicle drivers transporting propane.

"The high moisture content in corn and soybean crops due to unseasonable cool, damp weather has made propane necessary for drying and storing crops during this harvest," Caruso said. "Without action, Wisconsin family farmers could face severe economic losses."

"WFU thanks Gov. Doyle for signing the energy emergency proclamation, allowing propane transporters can better meet demand and increasing the availability of propane for our farmers," he said.