Stored Grain Insects

• Manage stored grain (wheat) insects at lower cost by control throughout a network of elevators.
• Reduce use and reliance on phosphine gas and other insecticides for pest control in stored grains.

Methods

• Early aeration (automatic controllers) to cool grain and reduce insect and mold population growth
• sanitation
• forecasting of safe storage periods
• intensive monitoring
• computer models
• biological control (conservation)

Extent of Implementation
Fiscal Years 1997-2001

• Kansas network - six county area and 11 terminal/country elevators
• Oklahoma network - four county area and 12 terminal/country elevators

Results to Date

• Incoming sampling data being analyzed.
• Previous studies have demonstrated reduced storage infestations from 60 to 16 percent.
• Reduced cost of pesticide from $1.50 to $0.60/ton.
• Increased residue free grain from 30 to 90 percent.