Keeping grains safe in storage

Producers can use the following charts to prevent spoilage of stored grain
How to use the charts:

• Measure the moisture content and temperature of your crop as it goes into storage.
• Plot this initial moisture content and initial temperature on the chart. If the result falls in the no spoilage zone, then your crop should store safely for up to 5 months, 6 months in the case of wheat. If it falls in the spoilage zone, spoilage will occur.
• Cool or dry the crop in storage until the temperature or moisture content put it in the no spoilage zone.
• The centre zone cuts off a 1% safety margin although spoilage may occur under these conditions.
• Be aware that the moisture content and temperature of a bulk may change during storage due to convection currents, leading to localized spoilage. Monitor the top- centre of the bulk regularly throughout storage or use aeration.

We had some much needed precipitation across much of Nebraska over the past week. Can we expect more of the same? Eric Hunt has your answer.