Tips for Preventing Stored Grain Spoilage this Summer

With intense early-season heat hitting much of the U.S. and stark humidity throughout the Corn Belt, grain in storage can become especially susceptible to pests and spoilage. However, producers can take specific steps to protect stored grain by monitoring grain bins. Here are just a few tips to consider:

>> Ensure grain temperature within the bins is no more than 10 degrees cooler than outside to prevent moisture formation.
>> Closely monitor grain temperature once weekly, but be sure to do so safely. Spoiled grain checks are often the precursor to entrapments and fatalities.
>> Turn on an aeration fan while checking for grain to help identify mustiness, indicating mold. Grain crusting can also be indicative of spoilage.

Read more on stored grain spoilage prevention here.