Need hay?

Landowners can now apply for permits to harvest hay from the rights-of-way of state highways.

Interstates and freeways are excluded from the program, now in its second year.

Landowners whose land abuts the a state right-of-way will have the first opportunity to receive the $40 hay permit until July 30. After July 30, anyone may apply.

Proof of $1 million liability insurance must accompany every application.

Note: If a permit for mowing and harvesting was issued last year, a permit for mowing and harvesting hay from that same area will not be allowed this year.

Adjoining landowners who receive permits can begin harvesting on July 15, but others are restricted to harvesting between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15.

The $40 permits will be available at Nebraska Department of Roads area maintenance offices across Nebraska.

Rules and regulations for hay harvesting can be found at: www.transportation.nebraska.gov/hay/, or call your local state highway maintenance or district office.