Midwest State Approves Heavier Harvest Loads for Farmers
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a harvest-season proclamation allowing farmers to transport heavier loads of grain, fertilizer and manure on state highways without obtaining special permits.
Exemption Covers Non-Interstate Highways
The exemption applies to loads traveling on Iowa highways outside the interstate system. State officials said the measure is intended to support an efficient harvest as agricultural activity increases across the state.
Farmers have begun harvesting corn in Iowa, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture reporting that about 2% of the state’s corn acres had been harvested during the latest reporting period. Approximately 38% of the crop had reached maturity, near the five-year average but behind the pace reported for the 2025 crop.
Weight Limits Still Apply
The proclamation does not eliminate all weight restrictions. Loads may not exceed axle-weight limits by more than 12.5% and must remain below 20,000 pounds per axle.
Drivers must also comply with posted weight limits on roads and bridges wherever those restrictions are in place. The interstate system is excluded from the exemption.
Harvest Traffic Expected to Increase
Recent rainfall has slowed some fieldwork, but harvest activity is expected to increase as weather conditions allow. The temporary provisions are intended to help move crops and other agricultural products from farms to elevators, storage facilities and processing locations during the harvest period.
