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Maintaining a Clean Water Trough for Cattle

Publication

Martin Wunderly
Extension Water Agent
University of Georgia
Watkinsville

Team Members: Wunderly, M*1, Fitzpatrick, R*2, Stewart, R*3, Reynolds, S*4, Fontes, P*5
  1. Extension Water Agent, University of Georgia Extension, Watkinsville, Georgia, 30677
  2. Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia Extension, Carnesville, Georgia, 30521
  3. Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia Extension, Lincolnton, Georgia, 30817
  4. Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia Extension, Crawford, Georgia, 30630
  5. Assistant Professor of Animal & Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, 30602

Abstract

Water is one of the most important parts of cattle diets and research shows that water quality can be associated with voluntary water intake and health performance. Unrestricted water access and clean water improves feed intake and average daily weight gains, increases milk production, and decreases illness and disease. Drinking water quality for livestock can vary by location and local conditions. Farms are limited in the availability of water sources, but there are water management methods that can help provide better quality water for animal health and production. To keep drinking water supplies clean and consistently available for cattle, farmers should consider water sources, wildlife exclusion, water access and location, and cleaning. This publication provides guidance on trough maintenance for cattle drinking water supply to help improve animal health and production. It is available on the University of Georgia Extension publication library to all producers. This publication was written by Martin Wunderly, Raymond Fitzpatrick, Robyn Stewart, and Shanna Reynolds, and it was edited by Pedro Fontes. https://secure.caes.uga.edu/extension/publications/files/pdf/C%201264_1.PDF

Publication