By Scout Nelson
North Dakota farmers urgently need alternative grain storage as summer storms have damaged many elevators. Proper grain care helps protect quality and value when space is limited.
Experts advise keeping grain dry and cool. Moisture content depends on storage time and outside temperatures. For short-term storage, corn should be 15–16 percent and soybeans 13 percent. For long-term storage, corn should be 13–14 percent and soybeans 11–12 percent. Oil sunflower, wheat, and malting barley also have specific moisture needs.
Buildings not designed for grain require strong support. Walls must be anchored, with added poles and grain walls to handle pressure.
Check for bowed walls, roof distortions, or loose connections, and reinforce weak points before filling with grain.
Poly storage bags are a good option if the grain is dry. However, bags cannot be aerated, so grain temperature follows outdoor conditions.
Select high, well-drained sites and run bags north to south to reduce moisture buildup. Monitor for wildlife damage and never enter a grain bag due to suffocation hazards.
Outdoor grain piles must stay dry and cool. Uncovered grain absorbs rain quickly, raising moisture and causing spoilage. Always cover piles and create proper drainage.
Even a one-inch rain can ruin layers of grain, leading to major losses. Place aeration ducts beneath the pile and use strong straps or suction to secure covers during high winds.
Cooling grain as temperatures drop reduces insect activity and extends storage life. Grain quality decreases faster when warm or damp, so proper airflow and regular checks are essential.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-romaset
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Weather