As early harvest is underway in the High Plains of Texas, Texas Corn Producers (TCP) has received reports of mycotoxin, a by-product of fungal activity promoted by environmental conditions, in early-harvested corn at levels requiring testing and quality adjustments.

 Farmers across the South Plains and Panhandle should be aware of this issue as they begin harvest, and take appropriate measures to mitigate losses. In order to know if a cornfield is affected by mycotoxins, testing must be completed by: a) elevators with capabilities, b) grain exchanges, or c) approved independent laboratory facilities.

 If mycotoxin is detected above the guidance levels established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is imperative that farmers carefully follow the steps outlined in  Paragraph 1109 of the Loss Adjustment Manual Standard Handbook issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Risk Management Agency (RMA).

 GUIDELINES

Without following the above guidelines, should a farmer begin harvest, and deliver to an elevator, processor or other facility, any mycotoxin testing completed by the accepting facility cannot be accepted for insurance purposes unless the facility has the capabilities to meet the criteria as an AIP-approved testing facility. In order for samples to be accepted for insurance purposes, instructions must be obtained from the adjuster for the farmer's insurance company.

Farmers with questions regarding proper protocol for handling potential mycotoxin issues in their cornfield should contact their respective insurance provider or TCP for further clarification. Farmers can access Paragraph 1109 of the RMA Loss Adjustment Manual Standard Handbook and relevant information on the TCP website,  www.TexasCorn.org.