By Scout Nelson
NDSU Extension is encouraging ranchers to closely monitor livestock water quality this spring as dry conditions continue affecting water supplies across North Dakota. Low spring runoff and below-average precipitation are creating concerns for producers who depend on surface water sources for grazing livestock.
Many ranchers use dugouts, stock dams, and other surface water supplies during the grazing season. However, NDSU Extension agents and specialists have received reports of water sources that are low, dried up, or potentially toxic to livestock. These conditions may affect cattle performance, health, and overall productivity.
Dr. Jake Galbreath, NDSU Extension veterinarian, explained that water quality plays an important role in livestock intake and weight gain. Studies show cattle drinking good-quality water may gain more weight compared to livestock consuming poor-quality water sources.
When water levels drop, minerals become more concentrated because minerals remain as water evaporates. High concentrations of total dissolved solids, commonly called TDS, and sulfates are major concerns in North Dakota. Elevated levels may become harmful to livestock.
“For most classes of grazing livestock, the TDS in the water should be less than 5,000 parts per million,” says Dr. Galbreath.
Sulfates are also part of TDS measurements. Recommended sulfate levels should remain below 500 parts per million for calves and below 1,000 parts per million for adult cattle. High sulfate levels may reduce copper availability in feed and create additional health concerns.
“Elevated levels of sulfates may cause loose stool, and very high levels of sulfate can induce central nervous system problems,” says Dr. Galbreath.
Miranda Meehan, NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist, encourages producers to use affordable tools such as hand-held TDS meters and sulfate test strips to monitor water quality. Ranchers may also request livestock water screenings through local Extension offices.
Laxmi Prasad, NDSU Extension water engineer, recommends producers explore alternative water supplies such as pipelines, wells, or water connections to improve drought resilience and ensure dependable livestock water access throughout the grazing season.
For more information on livestock water quality, producers should contact their local NDSU Extension office or visit ndsu.ag/ag-hub-water-26.
Photo Credit: pexels-adam-sondel
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Weather