Farmers Encouraged To Sell Excess Propane

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota's agriculture commissioner and propane industry officials are encouraging state farmers with a surplus of the fuel to sell it back to suppliers.

Commissioner Dave Frederickson says farmers could help minimize the impact of the critical shortage of propane by selling their excess supplies.

Minnesota Propane Association executive director Roger Leider says some propane suppliers in the state have been contacted by farmers and members of the commercial grain industry who want to help. Leider says pumping of farm storage tanks has already started.

Meanwhile, Gov. Mark Dayton has expanded the state's income eligibility for heating assistance from 50 percent to 60 percent of the state's median income. It's expected to help more Minnesotans gain access to financial assistance for the purchase of propane and other heating fuels.