In most grazing systems, access to high-quality water proves to be a critical limiting factor for cattle. The quality of water directly affects cattle intake and weight gain, with studies showing significant improvements in gains when cattle drink good-quality water.
Recent water quality screenings conducted by NDSU Extension have revealed acceptable sources for livestock use, thanks to high levels of runoff. However, the outlook for June in the state points towards a high probability of drier and hotter-than-average conditions, which may lead to decreases in both water quantity and quality. These conditions present greater challenges for producers, as reduced water quantity raises the potential for toxicity.
Natural water sources in the state often contain salts, which are dissolved minerals or solids. When surface waters recede, the mineral content of the water becomes more concentrated since minerals do not evaporate. Of particular concern are elevated concentrations of total dissolved solids (TDS) and sulfates.
For most grazing livestock, the recommended TDS concentration should be less than 5,000 parts per million (ppm), with sulfate levels preferably below 500 ppm for calves and below 1,000 ppm for adult cattle.
Throughout the grazing season, ranchers should monitor TDS and sulfate levels as water quality can be influenced by weather and other factors. NDSU Extension specialists recommend the use of affordable and user-friendly tools such as handheld TDS meters and sulfate test strips for water quality monitoring. If initial screening indicates TDS levels exceeding 4,500 ppm and/or sulfates exceeding 800 ppm, submitting a water sample to a lab for further analysis is advised.
Hot and dry conditions increase the risk of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms, which can produce toxins harmful to livestock, wildlife, and humans. The toxicity level depends on the species consuming the water, the concentration of toxins, and the amount of water ingested.
Visual monitoring is the recommended method for identifying cyanobacteria blooms, but frequent checks can be challenging due to their rapid development. To address this, using cameras to monitor water locations could provide a potential solution.
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Categories: North Dakota, Livestock