By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
Chances are, aif you’ve been driving gravel roads in recent weeks, you’ve noticed a bit of shifting.
“There has been some movement in the usual places where culverts either sink or raise up some, but not significantly more than other years with the transition from cold to warmer temps,” County Highway Superintendent Andy Muller said.
Muller went before Moody County commissioners at their most recent meeting with an annual request to enforce spring load limits as freeze-thaw conditions begin to take their toll. Enforcement runs from Feb. 15 through April 13, though Muller stressed that load limits are not in effect until signs are physically posted.
Typically, load limits are put in place when the “true” spring thaw arrives and frost begins coming out of the ground — most often in early to mid-March. One of the clearest signs of that shift, Muller said, is when moisture starts pushing out through cracks in the roadway.
Spring load limits are set at seven tons per axle on all county roads. Limits apply only to stretches of road that are clearly posted, with signs placed at both ends. Once signage is up, the South Dakota Highway Patrol is notified and enforcement is requested.
Bridges with posted weight restrictions remain restricted year-round.
Muller said asphalt roads tend to handle seasonal changes better thanks to their flexibility and regular maintenance, it’s primarily gravel they’re keeping a close eye on. Anyone pulling heavier loads should watch for signage as the thaw sets in over the next few weeks.
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