At few times has on-farm grain storage been a bigger factor in the grain marketing plans for many farmers. But, just having enough bins to hold your crops alone isn't enough. Knowing how to properly care for grain in storage is important to not only keeping up grain quality over extended periods in the bin, but also how much you're paid for your crop when you decide to haul it to the elevator, processor or feeder.

But, storing grain today doesn't come cheap. Carefully drying grain and keeping a close eye on grain quality could be the difference between an average and big-time payday. Check out these calculators, courtesy Iowa State University Extension, that can help you calculate your grain storage and drying costs.

BUILDING NEW BINS Building on-farm grain storage: Factors to consider Just getting started with new on-farm storage? For the farmer on a tighter budget, throwing together an all-new storage and drying facility may not always be the easiest task to tackle all at once. See some of the factors other farmers are considering in building new bins on their farm. Building costs will likely continue to increase in the future. So, what's the best approach? - Read more >> - Talk: Looking at a new grain storage facility >>

MAINTAINING ON-FARM STORAGE Already have on-farm storage? Keep it in good shape Keeping grain quality high while in the bin is a challenge, and with high energy costs, it may be difficult to resist the urge to curb energy expenditures for grain drying. Check out some of these tips to keep your grain and storage facilities in good shape, as well as what you can do to trim your energy costs associated with grain drying. - Read more >> - Also: Protecting grain in storage a savvy investment >> - Get more tips on keeping bins in good shape in Buildings and Bins Talk >>

TAKING CARE OF STORED GRAIN Watch test weights, moisture levels in storing harvested grain The 2008 fall harvest was one many farmers will want to forget. Wet, cool conditions made it tough to get grain out of the field and into the bin, and in many cases, that grain was a little on the damp side. If this is the case on your farm, staying on top of things like test weights, moisture levels and the cleanliness of stored grain in order to maximize your returns when you go to take out grain later on. - See the slideshow >> - Also: A time to dry >> - Talk: Drying corn with air only >>

MORE STORAGE FEATURES - Check your bins >> - Watch carbon dioxide levels in stored grain >> - How to choose a good grain auger >> - Boosting storage helps speed up harvest >> - Join a grain storage discussion >>