Moultrie Scene July 2023 | Page 98

FARM NEWS

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Grain silos are large , cylindrical tanks used to store livestock feed and grain high in moisture content like corn and barley .
There are two main types of silos : bunkers and towers . Onboth models , grain can be added to the silo using a grain elevator or auger through a hole in the top . The fan must be turned on as soon as there ’ s one metre of grain in the silo . This will ensure the grain doesn ’ t overheat .
The temperature and humidity of the grain must be checked as soon as it ’ s placed in the silo . It should also be frequently recorded throughout the storage period using a moisture meter
or temperature probe . Once the silo is full , the surface of the grain should be levelled with a spreader or shovel . This helps improve ventilation and stabilizes the temperature and humidity of the grain more quickly .
There ’ s little to no oxygen inside silos . This allows the grain and plant materials toferment , a process that ’ s called ensiling . It preserves the value ofthe grain until it comes into contact with oxygen .
On tower silos , grain can be unloaded directly from the bottom . However , with bunker silos , you must use a loader . If you have enough space , you can open one side of the silo so livestock can help themselves to feed .
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WHILE PUTTING OUR CUSTOMERS ’ NEEDS FIRST .”

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98 MoultrieScene JULY 2023