As growers transition from seeding back to grain hauling to get bins cleaned out and ready for harvest, there are two timely “Keep It Clean” messages to keep in mind: 1. Carefully clean all treated seed and seed treatment dust out of the trucks and augers. Elevators are watching for this, and may reject loads where treatment is detected. This…
Storage tips
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The Canola Council, in collaboration with PAMI and the provincial canola grower commissions, is gathering information to help define best management practices for summer storage of canola. We do not have enough practical information to answer the question “How does the warm summer air affect the temperature, moisture and potential spoilage of cooled canola?” There was also no way to…
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Canola may be stored longer than usual and in bigger quantities this year. As outside temperatures warm up, it becomes important to check bins again to make sure canola inside safely makes the transition from winter to spring and summer. Movement of air and moisture inside bins is greatest when the temperature difference between inside and outside is greatest. Increased…
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When outside air is colder than stored canola, another moisture cycle begins within the bin. The grain mass on the outside edge cools first. This colder air migrates down through grain along the bin wall then up through the central core, picking up warmth and moisture along the way. This creates a pocket of humid and warmer air at the…
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The number one risk: Neglected bins. Growers are busy enough at harvest just getting the crop off, but take time to check all bins within the first two weeks after filling, and then again a couple more times until the canola is cool and winter sets in. Canola seed continues to sweat during the first 4 to 6 weeks after…
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Harvest is a farmer’s busiest time of the year and unfortunately one of the most dangerous. Fatigue and stress often lead to shortcuts and unsafe practices during this time. It is essential to take breaks, slow down, follow safe practices, and ensure everyone on the farm is trained to do the task at hand…