Agriculture Today - January 2008

Ag groups convey concerns with proposed truck emission rules

New draft rule is expected mid-January

A proposal to require older diesel trucks to be phased-out could have a big impact on farms and other transportation-related components of the agricultural sector. That was the message conveyed to staff of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) last month at a workshop in Easton.

The current draft rule, which is under revision, requires diesel engines in trucks weighing more than 14,000 pounds to be replaced or upgraded. An updated draft rule is expected to be released in mid-January.

New diesel rules are anticipated to be adopted by CARB in October 2008 and are expected to impose diesel operators to retrofit or scrap older model trucks and engines. The proposed heavy-duty diesel-fueled truck rule are expected to apply to all trucks and fleets operated within the state of California, except pick-ups and other vehicles for non-commercial use with a gross vehicle weight of less than 14,000 pounds, and off-road vehicles “Low Use” vehicles that operate less than 100 hours and 1,000 miles annually.

Since release of the first draft of the proposed rule, the agricultural industry groups involved in the discussions have expressed concerns to the ARB from farmers and agricultural-related business owners regarding the estimated costs to comply. Many of the affected ag-related businesses can pass those increased costs on to their customers – mainly farmers and ranchers. Producers, though, do not have the ability to pass increased costs along to their buyers, as farmers and ranchers are price-takers, not price-setters. In essence, some farmers would end up paying twice—for their own costs to comply and those passed-along costs from other businesses.

A detailed letter from several ag industry groups – including FCFB-- was sent to the ARB in December, outlining the major concerns on behalf of farmers, ranchers and agricultural business owners.

At the Dec. 14 event in Easton, more than 35 trucks were on display and operators had the chance to explain to CARB staff about the specialized function and use of each truck Specialized diesel trucks, such as cotton module haulers, custom water trucks and cattle feeders, used in agriculture were displayed at the show to help educate the governing board about the types of trucks that agriculture relies upon.

The event was sponsored by the California Cotton Ginners and Growers Association, California Citrus Mutual, California Grape & Tree Fruit League, Fresno County Farm Bureau, Nisei Farmers League and Western Plant Health Association.