The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has announced an alternative dispute resolution process with propane distributors regarding issues in the Midwest. Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says the huge demand for corn drying and low temperatures have helped lead to the shortage of the fuel.

He says in late October the demand for propane in Iowa was three times higher than it normally is. Naig also says getting harvest done along with warmer weather is helping but what really would help is getting more supply.

Naig says getting the dispute resolution going next week will hopefully help provide more supplies of propane to the Midwest region.

FERC’s actions were prompted by requests from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds along with Iowa’s U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst.