Glacier FarmMedia — The spring melt across Western Canada will cause disruptions to grain and livestock movement, as seasonal spring road restrictions come into effect across the Prairies.
Spring road restrictions set axle weight limits for vehicles moving on certain roads to reduce the damage heavier loads can cause during the spring thaw period. Grain and equipment movement can both be affected by the spring road bans, as drivers may need to find alternate routes or haul smaller loads.
The duration of the restrictions will depend on the local weather conditions, but typically start up in early March and last through April and into May.
Winter weight allowances are still in effect across Western Canada, but road restrictions in most southern agricultural regions of Manitoba could begin as early as March 1. Saskatchewan and Alberta will also impose their restrictions soon, depending on the weather, with start dates over the past few years ranging from early to late March.
The transportation departments of all three provinces provide updated details on road restrictions.
