As rains come, so does the probability of hay barns catching on fire

stacked-bales-of-hay-in-a-barn-2-SBI-351327659.jpg

Photo via Storyblocks

Ohio State Extension is warning producers to stay vigilant about preventing hay barn fires as Mother Nature continues to bring excess rain.

Wet hay can spontaneously combust when internal bacteria cause temperatures to rise. Once hay reaches 175 degrees Fahrenheit, barns are at serious risk of fire.

Experts say hay stored at more than 20 percent moisture should be monitored closely. They recommend using a probe or sensor to check stack temperatures and warn against moving overheated bales without fire crews on standby.

Related Stories
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Michael Kelsey joined us to discuss wildfire impacts across the Southern Plains, the importance of community support, and the path forward for affected producers.
Citrus production depends heavily on reliable irrigation, making water shortages a critical issue for South Texas growers moving forward.
After devastating wildfires swept through Nebraska, Sen. Deb Fischer is championing a bill to expedite the relief process for farmers and ranchers. She joins us with updates on recovery efforts, conditions on the ground, and how the ag community has stepped up to help.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins surveys Nebraska wildfire damage as cattle losses, tight supplies, rising imports, and beef industry investigations impact U.S. markets. Roger McEowen outlines legal and tax considerations for ranchers recovering from wildfire damage.
Spring Weather Creates Uneven Early Season Field Conditions
Nebraska Cattle Rancher Joe Van Newkirk shares his firsthand insight on devastating wildfires in the Sandhills, discusses challenges facing ranchers, long-term calf health concerns, and the recovery efforts underway.

Hay

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Betsy Jibben with Ag Market Consulting takes us behind the scenes on report day with AgMarket.net.
A slimmed-down Farm Bill is back on the table in Washington, with lawmakers pushing for a deal by Fall 2025. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas weighs in with his outlook.
Foreign trade partners, such as China and the European Union, are still purchasing U.S. commodities, but are becoming more cautious as the Trump Administration’s tariff deadline approaches in August.
Demand for farm loans surged in the first quarter of the year, topping the previous record set in 2016.
Congress is seeking insight from meteorologists and weather researchers on how new technology can enhance safety and response times to severe weather and prevent future disasters.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer says the labor program will now be fully under her department, and consolidation will make the program more affordable and efficient for farmers and ranchers.