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Wisconsin IoH rule clarified

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a clarification to the state’s new Implements of Husbandry rules.  There was some question as to whether farm tractors and self-propelled implements with tracks are allowed on roadways.

Wisconsin law generally prohibits vehicles from being operated on roadways if any substance other than rubber protrudes from the tires’ surface, such as studs, flanges, cleats or spikes.  Farm tractors and implements are exempt from that rule provided they do not damage the highway.

DOT recommends that farm tractors, self-propelled farm implements and implements of husbandry with tracks use only rubber tracks on roadways.

The agency also states that if the exterior support wheels on a track unit are less than 42 inches apart, it is considered one axel for weight distribution purposes.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau president Jim Holte is urging farmers to be in communication with local government officials as they will have some choices to make regarding operation on their roads.  The municipality has six options ranging from complete “opt-in” to complete “opt-out”.  Holte says, “One of the primary responsibilities of town officials is to maintain and protect roads. Agriculture is a $60 billion industry that is dependent on these roadways. We believe these six options offer the flexibility for farmers and local governments to strike the right balance. That’s only going to happen if farmers have a reasonable conversation.”