Producers with on-farm stored grain are encouraged to check for insect and other problems in storage facilities. Bins should be inspected throughout the winter and spring seasons to determine if insect activity is present. Stored corn and wheat are most at risk for developing insect problems. Grain masses should be probed, and samples of grain placed in glass jars and inspected for insect activity after the sample grain is warmed to room temperature. If insect infestations are found, cooling the grain to 50 degrees F or less (infestations found in winter months) and/or feeding the grain to livestock are probably the best options depending on the condition of the infested grain. Cooling the grain mass to 50 degrees or less stops all insect activity and allows time to find a permanent solution to the problem. Fumigation is another option, but fumigation requires specific training, a self contained breathing apparatus, and specialized application equipment. Fumigation is best left to commercial pesticide applicators dealing specifically with stored grain insects.

Wayne Bailey
Ag Ext.-Plant Sciences
573-882-2838