Timber trucks may soon be allowed to carry additional weight on several state highways. The change is part of a pilot program being launched by the Arizona Department of Transportation and the State Forestry Division.
The new agreement will allow timber trucks to carry loads up to 90,800 pounds, an increase of nearly 20,000 pounds.
Officials hope the move will help to accelerate forest management treatments and improve fire resiliency. Dustin Krugel, a spokesman with ADOT, said the effort is a win-win for the timber industry and the state.
"This is really an effort to promote healthy forests and improved commerce in the area by making sure that the logging industry can remain competitive and it’s also protecting the state infrastructure from other potential forest fires," he said.
Timber haulers must apply for a special permit to participate. The designated routes are located in the White Mountains region of eastern Arizona and include state routes 77 and 60.
