This fall when producers stored their grain, many took steps to protect that grain from pests in the bin. Now with winter upon us, there are more steps that can be taken to further protect the grain. That’s according to SDSU Extension Field Crop Entomologist Adam Varenhorst who says it’s a good idea to take some samples from the bin and watch out for unusual odors that may indicate a problem.
He says one particular pest to look out for is the Indian meal moth which can be controlled by chemicals although sometimes if the bin is already cool and the weather gets cold enough, that will kill it.
Varenhorst says one of the most important things producers need to do is not store old grain on top of new grain.
Varenhorst also advises to watch out for external feeders that feed on grain dust and cracked kernels. He says some of those external feeders include the sawtooth grain beetle, the Cadelle beetle and Mealworms.
