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Mycotoxins return to Michigan corn fields

Mycotoxins are showing up in Michigan corn again this year.

Dr. Martin Chilvers, assistant professor in the Department of Plant Soil, and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University, says the mold was a major problem in 2016.

“We had some stressful events during pollination (last year).  Then we had much above-average rainfall during the month of August, and after that as well.  I don’t think we’re quite seeing the same level of mycotoxin contamination (this year), but Michigan is a big state with a lot of varied environments.  So there’s probably still going to be some hot pockets about the place.”

Because mycotoxins continue to be problematic, Chilvers says different management strategies are being considered.

“We’re looking at different insect-resistance traits.  Keeping on top of western bean cutworm is an important one (so) watch the maps and go out and scout and spray if you’re above threshold.  And certainly if you’ve got corn fields that do have a lot of western bean cutworm damage, look at those and perhaps try to get them harvested prior to the others.”

 

He also recommends prioritizing fields with ear molds to get moisture out of the grain, preventing the fungus from continuing to grow.

Chilvers tells Brownfield hogs seem to be more sensitive to mycotoxins than dairy cattle or poultry, adding contaminated feed can lead to reduced prices for grain and sometimes rejection.