Livestock water tanks

Types of Livestock Water Tanks

Livestock water tanks are designed to store and supply water for farm animals. They typically come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on different factors like the intended use, available resources, and environmental conditions.

• Traditional Water Troughs:

  Traditional water troughs are open containers placed in paddocks or fields to provide drinking water for livestock. Historically, these tanks have been made of materials like wood, metal, or stone. Modern open water troughs could be made of plastic or galvanized iron. Plastic water tanks for livestock are lightweight, easy to install, and rust-resistant through the use of technology. Galvanized livestock water tanks are long-lasting, versatile, and can be used for many purposes.

• Automatic Waterers:

  Automatic livestock waterers are devices that can offer a steady supply of fresh drinking water to livestock without manual refilling. These waterers are sometimes called self-feeding systems. They use float valves in complicated engineering to control the flow of water from a connected source, such as a municipal water supply, well, or rainwater harvesting system. Automatic waterers can take many forms, such as troughs, cups, or bowls, and they are designed to meet the specific needs of different livestock species. Cattles, for instance, can drink from large troughs fitted with float valves, while poultry can have small cups or nipples that provide water on demand.

  One of the most important benefits of automatic livestock waterers is that they reduce the need for frequent maintenance and offer a consistent and clean water supply.

• Rain Harvesting Tanks:

  A rain harvesting system is a technology for collecting, storing, and using rainwater. It involves capturing rainwater from roofs or other surfaces and storing it in a tank or container for later use. Rainwater harvesting systems are set up to make use of the rainwater as an alternative water source for various purposes, such as drinking, irrigation, flushing toilets, or supplying water to livestock. Rainwater harvesting systems can reduce dependence on traditional water sources and help manage water sustainably, especially in areas with limited regular water supplies.

• Solar-Powered Water Pumps:

  The role of solar-powered water pumps in livestock watering is to provide an environmentally sustainable and renewable method of supplying water to livestock. Solar pumps convert solar energy into electrical energy to pump water. They are powered by solar panels or photovoltaic systems. Solar-powered water pumps can be used in remote rural areas where access to electricity or other energy sources is limited. They can pump water from various sources, such as wells, boreholes, rivers, or storage tanks, and deliver it to troughs, tanks, or directly to the place of the livestock.

• Portable Water Tanks:

  Portable livestock water tanks are mobile containers designed to supply water to farm animals in different locations, particularly in temporary grazing or emergency situations. These tanks are usually made of lightweight materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or reinforced rubber, which makes them easy to transport and move around. Depending on the need, size, and model, some portable tanks have wheels, straps, or collapsible designs for easier transport.

Specifications and maintenance of livestock water tanks

Specifications

• Capacity: The size or capacity of the livestock water tank is often described in terms of litres or gallons. The capacity that is suitable for a livestock tank depends on factors such as the number of livestock, the size of the livestock, and the amount of water required.
• Dimensions: The livestock water tank size often includes such aspects as the diameter of the tank, length for rectangular tanks, and height. The dimensions of a water tank will determine its ability to hold water and its fit for the intended space or location.
• Water quality features: Livestock water tanks usually have a water quality feature that helps to protect the quality of the water. This may include functions such as preventing stagnant water, promoting water circulation, and reducing the growth of bacteria and algae.
• Temperature control: Some livestock water tanks are equipped with temperature control devices, such as thermostats and heating/cooling systems. These devices can adjust and maintain the temperature of the water to ensure that livestock have access to water at an appropriate temperature, thus meeting their needs.

Maintenance

• Regular cleaning: It is important to regularly clean the livestock water tank to remove dirt, algae, and bacterial build-up. Use a mild detergent to wipe the tank, and then rinse thoroughly to ensure no residual detergent. Clean the surrounding area as well to keep it hygienic.
• Check for leaks and damage: Regularly check the livestock water tank for leaks and damage. Check the tank for water seepage or cracks to avoid water wastage or contamination. If any leaks or damage is found, repair or replace them promptly.
• Prevent algae and bacterial growth: Livestock water tanks are prone to growth of algae and bacteria. This can be done by adding water purifying agents, disinfectants, or algae inhibitors, etc., to prevent and control the growth of algae and bacteria.
• Check facilities and accessories: Regularly check the facilities and accessories of the livestock water tank, such as water pipes, valves, and splash guards, etc. Ensure that the fittings are free from any blockage, leakage, or damage. Clean and maintain them. Replace any faulty parts to ensure normal water flow and kept as required.

Scenarios of Livestock Water Tanks

Livestock water tanks are useful for animals on different farms ranging from small-scale to large-scale as the following scenarios:

• Storage of Water: Livestock water tanks are used to store potable water, contributing to the growth, health, and welfare of livestock.
• Rain Harvesting: By installing gutters that lead to the water tank from the roof of farm buildings, farmers can collect rainwater. The collected rainwater will increase the amount of available water for livestock.
• Water Management Systems: Water tanks are usually used in conjunction with automatic drinking systems for livestock. These systems include gravity-fed drinkers, nipples, and valves that manage water flow according to livestock needs.
• Watering Livestock: Livestock water tanks provide a water source for different kinds of animals. Sheep, cattle, goats, horses, pigs, and poultry, among other animals, need sufficient and clean water daily for optimum growth, reproduction, and health. Different species of livestock have different preferences in terms of how water should be made available to them. Larger livestock animals like cattle and horses may prefer to drink from large open tanks or troughs. In contrast, smaller animals like chickens and pigs may drink from nipples or specially designed feeders.
• Healthcare: Veterinary personnel use water tanks to hydrate animals under treatment or recovery. Sick, injured, or pregnant animals often need additional hydration, and accessible water sources can aid in their recovery.
• Emergency Water Supply: Livestock water tanks can serve as a source of water during emergencies, such as droughts, contamination of other water sources, or natural disasters. Having a water tank can help farmers quickly respond to unexpected situations and protect their animals' health and well-being.
• Water Treatment and Supplementation: Water tanks are sometimes used for livestock water treatment. For example, tanks can be used to add mineral supplements or electrolytes to water for livestock consumption. Certain treatments can improve livestock health, especially during hot weather or periods of stress.

How to choose livestock water tanks

Some tips that owners or buyers of livestock water tanks can consider when choosing tanks include the:

• Farm needs analysis

  Before purchasing a livestock water tank, buyers should assess their farm's unique requirements to determine what type of tank will suit their livestock's needs. Take note of all factors like the number of livestock on the farm, the water consumption of each animal per day, and the preferred tank size. Consider a tank with a quality control system if the farm receives a volatile rainfall pattern that could influence the availability of water.

• Durable water tank materials

  When selecting a livestock water tank, it's crucial to consider the tank's material, as this will ultimately decide how long the tank will last. Choose a tank material that is both sturdy and long-lasting, as it will have to endure livestock activities and harsh weather. Buyers can choose tanks made of galvanized steel, UV-stabilized polyethylene, or concrete.

• Water quality

  Buyers can choose a livestock water tank designed to maintain optimal water quality. Such tanks include features like smooth, non-porous surfaces that are easy to clean and won't harbor algae or bacteria. These tanks also have good roofing to prevent contaminants from getting into the water. Additionally, the materials won't leach any harmful chemicals into the water.

• Budget

  An ideal livestock water tank should be affordable and meet the livestock needs of the farm. While the tank's initial cost is important, buyers should also consider potential long-term expenses like maintenance and energy costs.

Livestock water tanks FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a water trough and a water tank?

A1: A water tank stores a large quantity of water for later use, while a water trough holds water for animals to drink.

Q2: How often should the water tank be cleaned?

A2: Generally, livestock water tanks should be cleaned once every month.

Q3: How can one prevent algae growth in a water tank?

A3: Using dark-colored tanks, keeping the tank clean, and avoiding nutrient runoff in the water are some ways of preventing algae growth in water tanks.

Q4: Can epoxy coating tanks be used for potable water?

A4: Yes, as long as the coating is NSF certified for potable water.