Consider pros and cons of alternative grain storage methods
Intense storms can significantly affect grain storage abilities. Storage capacity could take years to recover from damaged facilities. When considering alternative grain methods, it’s crucial to keep some key storage factors in mind.
Grain can be stored in many types of facilities, but all storage options should keep the grain dry and provide adequate aeration to control grain temperature, according to Ken Hellevang, professor emeritus and retired North Dakota State University Extension agricultural engineer.
“Grain must be dry and cool (near the average outdoor temperature) when placed in alternative storage facilities because providing adequate, uniform airflow to dry grain or cool grain coming from a dryer is not feasible,” says Hellevang.
The full version of this news release can be found at ndsu.ag/altgrainstorage.
Structural Issues
Grain pushing against walls can damage buildings not built for grain storage. The wall must be anchored securely, and its structural members must be strong enough to transfer the force to the building poles or support structure without breaking or excessive bending.
Before placing grain in a building previously used for grain storage, look for anything out of alignment, such as wall bowing and distortions in the roofline. Bowing or bending indicates that the load on the building exceeded the load for which it was designed and built. This weakens the structure. Also examine connections for separation or movement and add a gusset or splice to reinforce the connection if necessary.
Bag Storage
Storing grain in poly bags is a good option, but it does not prevent mold growth in damp grain or insect infestations. Place grain in the bag at recommended storage moisture contents based on grain and outdoor temperatures during the potential storage period.
Heating will occur if the grain exceeds a safe storage moisture content, and it cannot be aerated to control heating. The average temperature of dry grain will follow the average outdoor temperature.
Grain Piles
Grain is frequently stored short-term in outdoor piles. However, precipitation is a severe problem for uncovered grain because grain is very porous. A 1-inch rain will increase the moisture content of a 1-foot layer of corn by 9%. This typically leads to losing at least a couple of feet of grain on the pile surface, which is a significant loss.
Use a cover to prevent water infiltration. Drainage is critically important to the success of any grain storage. About 25,000 gallons of water will run off an area about 100 by 400 feet during a 1-inch rain. This water must flow away from the grain and the area next to it. When determining a location for a pile, examine the entire area to ensure that flooding will not occur during major rain events.
Grain Covers
A combination of restraining straps and suction from the aeration system holds grain covers in place. Provide adequate airflow through the grain to control grain temperature. Place perforated ducts on the grain under the cover to provide a controlled air intake for the aeration system and airflow near the cover to minimize condensation problems under the cover.
Cooling Stored Grain
Cool grain with aeration to extend the allowable storage time and reduce the potential for insect infestation. Temperatures below about 60 degrees Fahrenheit reduce insect reproduction. Insects are dormant below about 50 degrees, and extended exposure to temperatures below about 30 degrees can kill insects.
Cooling grain as outdoor temperatures drop will reduce moisture migration and the condensation potential near the top of the grain pile. Also, the grain should be cooled because grain moisture content and temperature affect the rate of mold growth and grain deterioration. The allowable storage time approximately doubles with each 10-degree reduction in grain temperature.
Long-term Grain Storage
Grain has an acceptable storage life before the quality is reduced enough to impact its value. Allowable storage time is cumulative, so consider the amount of storage life remaining when deciding if you can store the grain longer.
“Keep in mind that airflow through the grain permits grain temperature to be maintained, but it does not extend the allowable storage time,” says Hellevang.
The full version of this news release can be found at ndsu.ag/altgrainstorage.
For more information about dealing with damage from summer storms, visit ndsu.ag/summerstorms25.
NDSU Agriculture Communication – June 26, 2025
Source: Kenneth Hellevang, 701-261-9869, kenneth.hellevang@ndsu.edu
Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu