With winter in full effect, grain farmers should be checking on their storage bins.
Extension experts say that odor is the first sign of a problem, saying musty or sour smells indicate mold.
Even if there are no signs of a problem, he recommends producers check on the grain every couple of weeks.
While the main goal is to protect the crop inside, the most important aspect is safety. A few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Have someone come along with you so they can call for help if a disaster happens.
- Use a lock-out tag-out system while in a bin so equipment does not accidentally turn on.
- If there are signs of spoiled grain, use even more caution because spoiled grain does not flow as easily out of the bin.
