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Spring load restrictions went into effect on Feb. 18 for the south, southeastern, and metro zones of Minnesota and on Feb. 19 for the central zone of the state.

The date for lifting winter load increases for the northern portion of Minnesota has not yet been set.

This year the placement and removal of both winter load increases and spring load restrictions are determined by weather-based models using actual and forecasted daily temperatures. Announcements of increases and restrictions are not made with a three-day notice.

"It is the responsibility of a truck operator to be aware of the announced changes and zones affected by contacting our website or calling us," said Gerald Rohrbach, director of the office of materials and road research.

The end of spring load restrictions is no longer fixed at eight weeks. The duration of spring load restrictions may be less than, but not more than eight weeks, for paved roadways.

Details regarding exact boundaries of these zones can be found at the MnDOT website at mnroad.dot. state.mn.us or by calling 1-800-723-6543.

Stearns County
Seasonal Road Restrictions took effect on Stearns County highways at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2002. Posted axle weight limits control vehicle weights on posted roads.

All county highways not posted are automatically five-ton highways. All restriction limits are gross axle weights. No overweight permits will be issued to vehicles that exceed the posted limits. Restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.

Maps showing the load limits on the various roads are available on our web site at www.co.stearns. mn.us/departments/pubworks/roadrest and at the Stearns County Public Works Building, located at 455 28th Avenue South, Waite Park.