There are many methods and ideas involved with farmers storing their grains. The University of Minnesota Extension has issued a report addressing grain storage. Share these tips with grain farmers.
The strategy involves four steps known as SLAM: sanitation, loading, aeration, and monitoring. In addition, use the best known harvest and production methods, and also maintain and properly use your handling equipment, drying systems, and storage facilities. They will help against pesticide residues, rodents, weather, insects, and molds.
Keep all of your equipment and storage systems clean! This is best accomplished in spring or early summer. It doesn’t take much for mold or insects to ruin an entire bin of grain. Make repairs as soon as they are needed. Screen old grain and fumigate if necessary. Also, use a bin spray at least 14 days before use.
When loading, again keep it clean and dry. Dry your grain slowly, limit handling, and stored in aerated facilities. Don’t forget to add a surface treatment also known as top dressing. This can help with insects. It should be noted that this won’t help with stored grain that is already infested with insects.
Keep your grain in an aerated environment that is slowly cooled to 50° or colder. This helps maintain clean grain and fewer insects. Maintain this temperature during the winter and the ensuing summer. Again, keep an eye out for insects.
Check your grain storage every week or two and look for issues involving molds, moisture, insects and temperature. If your grain is less than 30°, inspection intervals can be lengthened up to 30 days. Screen your grain for insects, and look for grain damage. Insect infestations are typically on or near the surface during summer & fall. But they are more likely to be in the middle of the grain during colder weather.
How important is grain to the U.S. food source? Think about the products you use daily that includes grain.
