Plan Ahead for Water Needs of Livestock
By Will Duffie County Extension Coordinator

In the Furrow

Beef cattle, dairy cattle, goats, and horse producers need to check water systems in pastures. It is imperative to have an adequate

and clean water supply in order to maintain proper health and obtain maximum growth. Already in

2007, temp

e r a t u r e s have hit the lower 90's and we all know Burke County will stay hot during the summer. Remember that rising temperatures and animal water requirements follow the same trend.

Producers need to inspect water tank and system health. Water tanks or troughs placement is critical and should be easily accessible for the livestock. Ideally, water should be available within every paddock. Generally, water should be available within 300 to 500 feet of the pasture where animals are grazing. When watering facilities are available nearby, livestock tend to visit the water trough in small numbers and return to grazing once their thirst is quenched. Tubs and tanks should be brushed and cleaned with one part bleach to 20 parts water solution occasionally during the grazing season.

Here are some typical total daily water need figures for a number of different animals (which do not account for water retrieved from forages). Please note that these figures are averages - there are cases where an animal's daily water need may be greater. When the air temperature is 90 F a 1000 lb lactating dairy cow requires 30 gallons per day. A 1400 lb lactating dairy cow requires 36 gallons per day, while a dry cow requires 22 gallons per day.

Beef cattle requirements are as follows: heifers, steers, bulls weighing 400 lbs require 9.5 gallons per day, 600 lb cattle need 12.5 gallons per day, and 800 lb animals require 15 gallons per day. A cow/calf pair will consume 20 gallons of water per day. If beef cattle are lactating, then the amount climbs to 16.2 gallons per day, and a 2000 lb bull needs 19 gallons of water. To calculate calves needs then use 1.5 gal per 100 lbs body weight. Sheep and meat goat have a lower need of 3 gallons per day while a horse will consume 12 gallons.

Now is the time to perform maintenance on existing water lines or add water tanks for the upcoming summer months. The unfortunate situation of a shortage of feed is one thing, but do not deprive animals of daily water needs.