STORAGE
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The importance of correct on-farm grain storage by Chief Industries, UK
o one can deny that grain storage is necessary on farms. The producer needs to store the large quantities of grain coming off the land at harvest time. The stock farmer needs to store sufficient grain to ensure he has stocks to provide reliable reserves of grain for his cattle, pigs, chicken, etc. But what are the options for storage, and what are the considerations for storage?
Cost
In considering the cost one must take into account the capital cost and, whilst this is one’s first main focus, it has to be evaluated in terms of the annual cost. What is the lifetime of the plant or equipment? What is the maintenance cost and running cost? Is there a resale value? What are the associated labour costs? All of these questions should be asked by the famer prior to making a decision. And finally, review that cost in relation to the value of the crop being stored. What can seem a lot of money may be comparatively small in relation to the contents of the storage system.
82 | June 2017 - Milling and Grain
Security
Security actually covers a wide range of factors that are very important to consider. Of prime importance is to keep the grain in safe and good condition. What grain you put into storage should come out in almost exactly the same condition. That is of paramount importance. The most expensive loss you can have is for stored grain to be spoiled. Of course, the method of storage should be designed to accommodate the stresses of holding grain in a contained area. The forces associated with stored grain are substantial. Ignore them at your peril, or someone else’s. Failed storage systems can easily result in loss of life. Then you need to consider damage and losses due to rodents, birds, and insects. How secure will the grain be against moisture? From rain entry, ground water, condensation, or simply being put into storage at too high a moisture content. Finally, maybe the first thing anyone thinks about when you mention “security” is, how safe is the grain against theft.
Bags
Thankfully the days of storing in bags are coming to an end, but only slowly in Africa and parts of the Middle and Far East. It is labour intensive hard work. Bag life is short, so although it may not be a high cost it is on-going and an annual cost.