MICE are popping up across the state and as seeding preparations begin to build, growers are being encouraged to prioritise hygiene for seed grain and storage infrastructure.
GRDC grain storage extension specialist Ben White recommended cleaning up any spills or tailings from the seed cleaner to minimise the potential for mouse and insect damage.
"Grain spills around sheds and silos at this time of year can supply a feed source for vermin and insect pests. So promptly cleaning up silo and auger hoppers, seed cleaning tailings and any grain spills eliminates a potential food source," Mr White said.
If significant mouse numbers were to eventuate, stored seed can be damaged, as well as chewed electrical wiring on machinery.
Growers with temporary storage including grain storage bags and sheds are being urged to monitor these with increasing vigilance.
Mr White said that four months is typically the safe storage time limit for grain stored in bags, with longer storage periods increasing pressure from pests.
Mice and birds are attracted to spilt grain. Foxes then chase the mice, leaving holes in bags where water can penetrate and damage grain.
"Cleaning up, baiting, and fencing have proven to reduce problems for many growers," Mr White said.
"Prioritising outturn of grain in short-term storage options will minimise the potential for damage to the stored grain."
Mr White encouraged growers to do a pre-seeding check of seed and stored grain in silos, sheds and bags, looking for insect and vermin outbreaks.
"Get grain storage hygiene in order and look for signs of vermin activity, baiting early as needed. Sample and sieve to find grain storage insect pests and look for evidence of activity. A germination test heading into seeding is also recommended so seeding rates can be adjusted accordingly," he said.
Hygiene and early intervention can minimise numbers and the impact vermin and insects can have on the quality of seed and market-bound grain in storage.
- Start the day with all the big news in agriculture. Sign up here to receive our daily Stock Journal newsletter.
