Insects are the silent partners to worry about.
Though extended storage may be a good option for some growers, those who try it need to watch closely for insects, say two Montana State University entomologists. Insect monitoring doesn't have to be costly or time-consuming, says Sue Blodgett, Extension's integrated crop and pest management specialist. Monitoring by taking grain samples is okay, but it takes a lot of time to separate and count bugs in a grain sample. It's easier and quicker to have a reusable insect trap. Once a producer begins finding insects, it is time for a quick sale, further control efforts or very good projections of insect populations.