MDA is Offering Free Grain and Forage Testing to Maryland Farmers

ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 18, 2012)– With reports of drought like conditions coming in from farmers, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is encouraging all farmers that use fertilizers containing nitrate on their corn and sudan-sorghum grasses, or who are concerned that the corn grain may have mold to work closely with their county extension agents before feeding it to their animals. MDA is offering testing for aflatoxins, nitrates and prussic acid, which may be present in grain and forage. These compounds, which can sicken or be deadly to livestock, or even affect pregnancies, are often present in dry weather conditions.

“This summer’s lack of rainfall has left many areas of the State with rainfall and soil moisture deficits that are impacting agricultural crops significantly,” said Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance. “I encourage farmers to contact their crop insurance agent to understand claim filing requirements and to take advantage of MDA’s free testing service for grain that may be affected by drought-related toxins.”

Free Grain/Forage Testing for Drought-Affected Crops

The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s State Chemist Section is offering free testing through the University of Maryland Extension Offices. A sample information sheet can be found on the MDA web site as to the amount, storage and how to obtain a representative sample. To find a local extension office, visit www.extension.umd.edu. For grain sampling instructions and a submission form, log onto www.mda.maryland.gov/pdf/silage_sampling.pdf.

Commercial Feeds

In addition to the above the State Chemist Section Inspections staff will be increasing its surveillance of susceptible commercial feeds for aflatoxin.

For more information about testing or questions about sampling contact your county agent or Ken McManus, Laboratory Manager, or Offiah Offiah, Supervisor at MDA at 410-841-2721.
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