Farmers Get Temporary Diesel Relief in Louisiana

Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Louisiana farmers and timber workers are getting some relief as diesel prices continue to rise all across the State and Country. Governor Jeff Landry has declared a state of emergency and signed an executive order allowing some farmers and timber harvesters to use dyed diesel fuel in certain vehicles during harvest season.

For farmers and timber workers, the temporary change could help lower some of the cost of getting through one of the busiest times of the year.

What Is Dyed Diesel Fuel?

Dyed diesel is regular diesel fuel that has been colored red. It is normally used for off-road equipment, such as tractors, logging equipment, and irrigation pumps. State law generally does not allow it to be used in vehicles that travel on public roads.

Governor Landry Temporarily Allows Dyed Diesel Fuel for Farmers & Timber Workers

Under the new order, that rule is temporarily suspended through October 22, 2026. The change applies to vehicles registered for farm use or forest products while farmers and timber workers are in the middle of harvest season.

The move comes as diesel prices reach record levels in Louisiana. The state average for diesel is now about $6.03 per gallon. That is a major increase for farmers and timber companies, which use large amounts of diesel during their work.

“We’re not going to sit on the sidelines while Louisiana farmers are paying record prices to harvest the crops that feed our families and support our economy,” Landry said. “We have an opportunity to provide immediate relief, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”

The governor's order also directs the Louisiana Department of Revenue to ask the federal government for relief from federal penalties connected to the use of dyed diesel.

Not Just A Diesel Problem - Gas Prices Soaring

High diesel prices are not just a Louisiana problem. Diesel supplies across the country are below the normal five-year average, while demand and exports remain high. It's also not just a diesel problem; gas prices have also continued to rise recently. AAA reported that the Louisiana average for regular gasoline was about $3.90 per gallon on September 15. In the Lake Charles area, regular gas was also around $3.90 per gallon, while diesel was about $5.81 per gallon.