Corn storage capacity, already insufficient in many areas, would be further stretched by the volume of corn anticipated this year. As a consequence, more corn will be stored in existing structures such as silos, machinery storage buildings, warehouses, or even livestock buildings. These structures can be used successfully for short-term storage of cool, dry grain if good management practices are used -- that is, if the grain is in good condition when placed in storage and the challenges of grain handling, aeration and pest control can be met. If grain in temporary storage is managed improperly, much of it could be lost to molds, rodents and insects.
Conventional corn storage bins have clear advantages: they are rainproof, vented, and resist insects, animals and other pests. Temporary grain storage structures may share all, or none of these characteristics. For successful storage, the critical grain storage requirements not contained in the temporary structure must be added by the user. Even so, some experts caution that grain losses or discounts may reach 10% and that the storage period may often be shorter than desired in temporary storage structures vs. standard grain bins. In fact, some temporary structures may only hold grain in condition for three to four months or less unless extensive modifications or improvements are made. It is as per the DuPont Pioneer Steve Butzen, Agronomy Information Manager.
Conventional grain bins are weather- and pest-proof, and have built-in aeration systems. Most temporary grain structures will need to be modified to provide these characteristics.
Careful grain movement and low-temperature drying are also important to minimize broken kernels and stress cracks that lead to eventual breaking. Intact kernels resist mold and grain deterioration. Broken kernels and "fines" block air movement in storage and lead to "hot spots" of spoiled grain in the bin. Rotary screens, gravity screens or perforated auger housing sections can remove broken kernels and fines prior to storage. If grain has poor quality, with excessive broken kernels, fines, kernels rots, and/or foreign material such as weed seeds or trash, it should likely not be stored.
