Comment Log Display

The Honorable Mary Nichols
Chair, California Air Resources Board
1001 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Chair Nichols,  

As a Califoronia sheep producer and livestck hauler, I am writing
to voice my strong support for your staff's revisions to the Truck
and Bus Regulation that would classify trucks that exclusively haul
livestock as specialty farm vehicles.  The proposed provisions will
ensure ranchers have access to enough trucks to move their
livestock by delaying retrofit and replacement requirements for
dedicated livestock haulers until January 1, 2023.
My sheep operation requires me to haul my livestock from ranch to
ranch within state, as well as out of state.  When time allows I
also haul livestock for other ranchers.  Owning a truck and trailer
rig allows me to get into tight areas where semis cannot, therefore
putting my type of truck in demand.  Hauling livestock is an
integral necessity of my sheep business, but not a daily job or
main source of income.  Because of my sporadic use of my livestock
truck, the inconsistent sheep market, rising costs, drought
conditions, and feed and water shortages, I am not financially able
to meet the costs associated with the retrofit.  The proposed
revision and January 1, 2013 date would allow me to continue my
sheep operation and over time be able to replace my truck as
necessary with age.  Please do not delay in supporting this
important and critical provision as proposed by staff at your
hearing on April 24, 2014.

Sincerely, 

John M. Olagaray
Five-O Ranch
11888 N. Davis Rd.
Lodi, CA 95242