The Canadian Grain Commission is urging farmers to protect grain in temporary storage from insects, rodents and deer.
“We’re seeing a little bit more of a pile on the ground,” said commission entomologist Blaine Timlick.
If farmers are forced to store grain on the ground, they should take whatever precautions are economically feasible to preserve its quality.
“Preventing losses is easier, safer and less expensive than controlling the deterioration from moisture, moulds and bugs or cleaning up the mess left by rodents and deer,” Timlick said.
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Producers can use tarps to protect the grain from moisture, while temporary fencing keeps wildlife away. Deer feces have become a concern in the last few years and an unprotected pile of warm grain is an enticing place for those animals.
Illuminating the pile with lights is also a good idea, said Timlick.
“This doesn’t keep insects away. This is more or less for the cervids and other mammals – mice, rats, etceteras.”
To prevent insect infestations Timlick has one golden rule – get the pile cooled quickly. This could mean turning the grain or inserting aeration tubes. If farmers can get the temperature below
15 C, insects will not reproduce.
“You’re not going to stop the infestation, but you’re going to stop the problem from manifesting.”
Timlick said producers should monitor the grain pile for changes in temperature and moisture level and screen for infestations.
“These will be checked at the elevator when they deliver and, if deterioration or damage has occurred, the quality loss will be reflected in the grade. If the grain is infested, it will be refused.”
Timlick said grain stored on the ground doesn’t have to become feed grade. If farmers take a few precautions like aeration tubing and tarps, they may be able to keep the grain at the No. 2 or 3 grades.
