Load Posting Implements of Husbandry and Emergency Vehicles for Minnesota's Local Bridge Inventory

Summary:

Historically, farm implements of husbandry (IoH) were exempt from load postings of local roadways. Though this is no longer the case, they are still exempt from damage to bridges. This is a significant concern because it is important to ensure the safety of all local bridges. There are approximately 15,000 local bridges in Minnesota. MnDOT State Aid Bridge, in collaboration with Minnesota counties, developed a mapping tool to illustrate IoH traffic on local bridges. Load rating using “standard” IoH (referred to as Tier I) is currently in progress by MnDOT State Aid Bridge. The next step is to identify what “non-standard” (Tier II and III, aka newer mega overweight IoH) equipment is currently being used by Minnesota farmers and where they are being used. This project will assist State Aid in reviewing inventory of current farm vehicle makeup and loading statistics, develop a mapping tool with IoH bridge restrictions, develop IoH load posting sign, and sign protocol, and create outreach materials for farmers and bridge owners.

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