Protect the Grain You Harvested

Check Grain During Winter Months

Jim Patrico
By  Jim Patrico , Progressive Farmer Senior Editor
Winter can bring changes to stored grain. Keep watch so those changes don't cost you money. (DTN/The Progressive Farmer photo by Tom Dodge)

You might think that grain in your bins is quietly hibernating. But organic materials such as corn, wheat and soybeans are subject to change, even as a cold February settles in. And change is not always a good thing. Grain quality can suffer, which could lead to costly discounts. So think about how best to protect the quality of the grain you worked so hard to grow and to tuck into bed.

1. Check for hot spots and moisture in bins, at least twice a month. If you have an electronic sensor system, you can do this online in the comfort of your office or on your smart phone. To be cautious, check occasionally to be sure your sensing equipment is functioning as it should.

2. Avoid going into a bin to check for quality issues. In 2010, according to OSHA, 26 Americans died from grain entrapment. But, if you absolutely have to go into a bin, think safety first. Make sure power to augers is off. For good measure, lock the switch so no one can accidentally start it while you are in harm's way. Other basics: Wear a harness and don't go in alone. Have a partner there to spot you. Wear a dust respirator.

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A lot of wet grain went into bins last fall. It's susceptible to bridging, which creates an illusion of a solid surface where there is none. Use a pole to probe and possibly break up crusted grain before you step onto it.

While inside the bin, sniff for odors of spoiled grain, feel for warm areas and look for signs of mold or insects.

If you do find a hot spot, use aeration fans to cool it down.

3. Look outside of the bin for signs of rodents. Mice, rats and squirrels hear the dinner bell every time grain spills on the ground. Clean spills quickly, and if you see signs of rodents, take measures to kill them.

4. Blowing winter winds can push rain, snow or ice into leaks areas you didn't know existed. Be sure to examine roof vents and entryways.

5. Maintain a steady temperature in the bin. Grain temperatures should be within 5 to 10 degrees of average monthly temperatures. If the ambient temperature reaches 35 degrees, turn off the aeration fans and cover fan inlets, experts advise; don't add or subtract heat until spring begins to warm the outside. Then you should let the heat rise gradually.

6. If you find signs of aspergillus, the coming of warm moist spring air could bring real trouble as the fungi populations feed and reproduce. Sell the grain before the problem gets worse.

(BAS)

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Jim Patrico