Propane Shortages Causing Headaches for MN Turkey Growers

ST. CLOUD -- Stearns County is one of the state's largest turkey producers and growers are feeling the pinch because of rising propane prices and a limited supply.

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association Executive Director Steve Olson says it's a concern as the cold winter lingers.

Olson says turkey growers rely on propane to heat their barns and a shortage of the gas can have devastating effects. He says not only is it an economic hardship for turkey growers, but farmers are having a hard time finding suppliers who can fill their tanks.

Prices have gone from about $1.75 a gallon last fall to about $5 a gallon in recent days.

Federal and state lawmakers are looking for answers for the propane price spikes and supply problems.