South Dakota farmers are expected to put more grain into storage this fall due to the lower prices. As a result, farmers need to protect the quality of the crop through proper storage, including preventing grain pest infestations. SDSU Extension Field Crop Entomologist Adam Varenhorst says farmers should not store the new crop on top of the old one.

He also says farmers should keep the grain bin clean and well sanitized.

Varenhorst says after bin sanitation has occurred, a pre-binning insecticide can be applied to the walls and floors two to three weeks prior to harvest.

Varenhorst adds that pre-binning insecticide applications are most effective when air temperatures are above 60 degrees Fahrenheit due to increased insect activity.