Aeration is the introduction of low-volume ambient air to cool stored grain and manage temperature during storage. The optimal developmental range for most stored grain insects is between 24 and 32°C, and development stops at about 15°C. This temperature is often used as the target for initial aeration of crops harvested and stored in autumn. Aeration can be controlled with a thermostat and timer, which would induce airflow when temperatures drop below specified levels.

Rice is an important crop in Arkansas, and parts of Louisiana, Texas, southern Missouri, and western Mississippi along the river delta. In the northern portion of the range, there is one crop harvested in September. However, in eastern Texas, there are two cuttings or harvest, one in August and another in November. Historical weather data can be used estimate the effects of aeration at different temperatures, and also plan management strategies for different rice storage regions within the south-central USA.

Field studies were also conducted to evaluate the impacts of aeration on insect population development. The impact of aeration in Missouri and Arkansas would be advantageous in times of early harvest, while controlled aeration in rice stored in eastern Texas would be far more effective than either manual aeration or aeration by natural cooling. As part of our research approach, we also developed an integrated web-based management program for stored rice that incorporates weather data and predicts insect population development for selected stored-grain insects.