A permanent or portable tank or trough to provide an adequate amount and quality of drinking water for livestock and or wildlife.
How it helps
Provide access to drinking water for livestock and wildlife to meet daily water requirements.
Access to water helps improve livestock distribution to pastures.
Providing easily accessible water to meet daily livestock needs keeps livestock healthier.
Portable tanks prevent livestock from creating trails to watering facilities. This helps reduce compaction and soil erosion, and keeps pastures in better shape.
Planning ahead
Is there access to a water source, such as a well or pond?
How many animals do you plan to have access to the water?
Tech Notes
Design the watering facility to meet the daily livestock water requirements.
Locate water facilities to promote even grazing distribution and reduce grazing pressure on sensitive areas.
Install permanent watering facilities on a firm, level foundation that will not settle, such as bedrock or compacted gravel or soil.
Design to prevent overturning by wind or animals.
Design to withstand damage by livestock, wildlife, freezing, and ice damage.
Use durable materials with a life expectancy to meet or exceed the planned useful life of the installation.
Maintenance
Keep the watering tank or trough clear of debris, algae and sludge.
Check for leaks.
Check for erosion in area adjacent to the tank or trough.
What it is