Manage the stored grain and bin can minimize storage losses

1. Manage the Stored Grain and Bin can Minimize Storage Losses When it is time for harvesting the grain, there are certain basic things that the producers should review for the storage arrangement of the grains. The first thing that should be considered in the evaluation of storage bins and the practices to prevent the infestation of insects, pests, and rodents as well as prevent the development of mold or fungus. Also, ensuring the better quality of grain with the appropriate harvesting and storage practices can enhance the life of the grains. Drying systems, grain bin monitoring systems, grain temp guard alarm systems, grain bin temperature probes,and related devices are helpful in the proper storage of grains. Here are some basic steps that should be maintained after the harvesting of the grain to retain the quality of the grain as well as for their protection.

2. 1. Sanitizing the bin as well as the surrounding areas Before you start with the storing of the grain and putting the grain in the bin, ensure that the bin and the surrounding areas are free from the leftover grain. Cleanup is essential as soon as the bin is emptied. The unwanted and old residue of the grain should be removed, otherwise, it will lead to an infestation of insects, pests, and rodents. Also, there are chances of contamination of new grain that is stored in the bin. Apart from this, ensure that all the cracks, holes, etc. are repaired before putting the grain. After, screen for infestation, fumigate the bin and the surrounding areas 2. Clean the bin and areas around After fumigation thoroughly clean the bin and the surrounding area including the floor, and duct for the debris and grain spills, if any. It is important to check the inside of the bin as well as the outside surface and the area around the bin. The presence of grain spills can lead to the growth of weeds in surrounding areas. Sweeping or vacuuming the bin can help in getting rid of the dust and old grains. 3. Check the structure of the bin The bin structure should be checked for roof leaks, seals between the bin and the concrete, base of the bin wall, seals around the doors, and hatches. Any leaks or broken seals will cause the moisture to enter the bin or the moisture going away from the cracks. Also, leaking roofs and broken seals may invite insects, pests, and rodents inside the bin. 4. Ensuring the availability of essential grain temp guard equipment Before your bin is ready to store the grain, make sure that you have installed all the grain temp guard equipment such as the grain temp guardalarm system, or grain temp guard dual system for monitoring and maintaining the temperature and moisture content of the grain. Also, once you have put the grain, use grain temp guardprobes alarm DT and/or HT at various spots in the bin to keep a track of temperature and the humidity levels inside the bin.