LIVESTOCK WATERING SYSTEMS IN SASKATCHEWAN · Project Partners Funding for this publication was provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Greencover Canada Program. Livestock

LIVESTOCK WATERING SYSTEMS IN SASKATCHEWAN:

Producer Experiences

Livestock Watering Systems in Saskatchewan:Producer Experiences

byTara Mulhern Davidson and Stacey Gulka

© Ducks Unlimited Canada 2007

i

Foreword

Having adequate supplies of high quality water forlivestock is essential for successful livestock operations inSaskatchewan. Many producers use wetlands or dugoutsas their main water source for livestock watering. Oftenthese areas have increased animal pressure leading toheavy impacts on the shorelines that can reduce waterquality.

Providing clean water can improve livestock health and atthe same time help maintain the health and productivityof riparian and upland habitats. Studies show that byproviding alternate watering locations, producers canimprove weight gains of their animals and improve theprofitability of their livestock operation.

Every livestock operation is different and every producerhas to deal with unique challenges associated with theoperation and management of their herd to achievesustainable economic and ecological goals. As more andmore producers look to make improvements to howlivestock are being watered throughout the year, theybegin to ask questions about the best options for them.Information on the following questions can be found inthis document:

1. What are some of the things that I need toconsider when deciding on a watering system?

2. What are some examples of alternate wateringsystems?

3. What type of system will fit my water source?4. How will I power my system?5. What are the size requirements I need to

consider?6. What type of infrastructure will I need to invest

in?

This document was developed to provide livestockproducers with actual examples of livestock wateringsystems that producers in Saskatchewan are using. Eachexample is unique in some way. There are many examplesof livestock watering systems across Saskatchewan.However, this document provides a small sample ofsystems that producers are using to help achieve theireconomic and ecological goals.

We thank all the producers who have participated indeveloping this document by sharing their time andexperiences in developing alternate watering systems fortheir livestock operations.

Daryl Nazar, Project CoordinatorDucks Unlimited Canada

Project Partners

Funding for this publication was provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s

Greencover Canada Program.


ii

Acknowledgements

Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) and the SaskatchewanWatershed Authority (SWA) would like to thank theadditional agencies which partnered to help fund thisproject. Special thanks to all the reviewers who helped uscomplete this project and to Agriculture and Agri-FoodCanada’s Greencover Canada Program for providingfunding. Thanks to Lorne Klein, Jeremy Brown, EtienneSoulodre, Ross Macdonald, Stuart Cairns, SWA, DUCand the many producers for providing photos for thisdocument.

Content CompilationThis directory was compiled by Tara Mulhern Davidson,Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (formerlyemployed by Saskatchewan Watershed Authority inpartnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada) and StaceyGulka, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority (inpartnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada). Both Taraand Stacey were hired through funding from Agricultureand Agri-Food Canada’s Greencover Canada Program todeliver the project entitled “Range and RiparianStewardship in the Missouri Coteau”. Daryl Nazar(DUC) was the project coordinator. Ducks UnlimitedCanada and Saskatchewan Watershed Authority have alsopartnered to provide funding for this project. Producerstock watering projects and descriptions were adaptedfrom on-site visits to producer operations and producer

testimonials.

Project ReviewersBob Springer PAg - Saskatchewan Watershed AuthorityTom Harrison PAg - Saskatchewan Watershed AuthorityJeremy Brown PAg - Saskatchewan Watershed AuthorityPaul Chomos - Saskatchewan Watershed AuthorityRoss Macdonald-PAg - 98 Ranch Inc.Michel Tremblay PAg - Saskatchewan Agriculture andFoodLorne Klein PAg - Saskatchewan Agriculture and FoodTara Mulhern Davidson AAg - Prairie FarmRehabilitation AdministrationRon Moss PAg - Prairie Farm RehabilitationAdministrationDale Regnier - Prairie Farm RehabilitationAdministrationMichael Champion PAg - Ducks Unlimited CanadaStuart Cairns –PAg Ducks Unlimited CanadaDuane Hill –PAg Ducks Unlimited CanadaDaryl Nazar PAg -Ducks Unlimited Canada

Most importantly we would like to extend ourappreciation to all landowners who offered their time andexplanations during the various stages of developing thisdirectory.

Government ofSaskatchewan


iii

Table of Contents

i | Forwardii | Acknowledgementsiii | Table of Contents

1 | Introduction

Wind Powered Systems

4 | Bryce Bringedahl5 | Larry & Evelyn Roosen6 | Dennis Rude

Solar Powered Systems

7 | Brian Cornelson8 | Todd & Dennis Erickson9 | Dwayne & Karen Fettes10 | Paul Fradette11 | Blaine Lohse12 | Murray & Selena McGillivray13 | Jeff Nergard14 | Clem & Mina Sanden15 | Dean Simonson16 | Khris, Chrissy, & Stuart Webb17 | Kevin & Colette Wilson18 | Daryl & Linda Wiles19 | Simonson Farms20 | Gayland Panko

Stabilized Access Points

21 | Murray & Selena McGillivray22 | Kirk Newton

Spring Development

23 | Michael & Tamela Burgess24 | Wayne Crawford25 | Raymond & Robert Prefontaine

Pasture Pipelines/Gravity Systems

26 | John Aitken27 | Paul Hofer28 | Jarrod & Tammy Klassen29 | Andy & Jaqui Martynook30 | Tom & Joanne McKee31 | Brad Dunn32 | Simonson Farms

Winter Water Systems

33 | Neil & George Alexander34 | David Blanchard35 | Waldorf Ranch36 | Glen Ekert37 | Kurt Fiechter38 | Jack & Steve Gunter39 | Don & Beth Simeniuk40 | Kelly Wall41 | Shawn Griffin

High Volume Water Troughs

42 | Lorne Klein43 | Doug & Jackie Hines

44 | Useful Organizations, Publications & Websites


1

Livestock Watering Systems –Beneficial Management Practices

Good quality water for livestock is critical. Traditionallylivestock have relied on direct-access water sources, suchas creeks, dugouts, sloughs or dams. However, there areseveral important reasons to consider developing an off-site watering system on your farm or ranch:

WATER QUALITY

• Healthy riparian areas are able to filter andbuffer substances from run-off that maynegatively affect water quality. Since water isthe single most important factor in livestockdaily nutrition, it is important that the riparianarea is able to perform this filtering function.Water quality parameters such as total dissolvedsolids and mineral levels should be monitored.A bacterial analysis is used to assess thepresence of micro-organisms that may beharmful to livestock. Chemical analysis is usedto assess the mineral content of the watersource, this includes total dissolved solids,major ions, heavy metals, and trace ions.Information on the safe levels of each of theseparameters for livestock water sources isavailable at:

www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Livestock_Water_Quality

SUSTAINABILITY

• Water is a precious resource on the prairies.Protecting your water source and insuring itsfuture sustainability is perhaps the biggestbenefit you can gain from establishing an off-site water system. Developing a stock watersystem will not only benefit man-made stockwater sources such as dugouts and dams, butwill help protect natural stock water sources,such as creeks, rivers, springs, and sloughs.

Riparian areas perform many important ecologicalfunctions, including bank maintenance and groundwaterrecharge. These functions increase the stability andreliability of the water source. Riparian areas can also bean important source of forage for cattle and otherlivestock, as well as provide crucial wildlife habitat formany prairie species. Riparian areas and other water

sources are essential to producers and should be managedto ensure their sustainability.

Extending Seasonal Flows

• Extending the supply and quality of a watersource at times of heavy run-off. Heavilyimpacted water sources may not last long intothe grazing season, and water flows can slow oreven stop in some situations.

• Reducing the need to frequently clean-outdugouts.

By pumping water into a trough, livestockwill spend less time in a dugout and“tramping in” is less of a problem.

IMPROVED ANIMAL PRODUCTION

Improved animal gains

• There are many studies demonstrating thatweight gains are better on cattle that drinkwater from an off-site water system thandirectly from the water source. Better weightgains equal a better bottom-line!

Improved herd health

• Producers often find that herd health improveswhen cattle are not directly accessing water, anddiseases such as hoof rot and mastitis arereduced dramatically.

GRAZING MANAGEMENT

Animal Distribution

• Moving and strategically placing water systemsto improve livestock distribution on a pasture.

Example: A shallow pipeline that enableswater to be pumped into areas of apasture where cattle had previously beenreluctant to graze.

Flexible Grazing Plans

• Allowing some flexibility to use pastures atdifferent times of the year or as part of agrazing rotation

Example: A portable trough system thatcan be moved from pasture to pasture.


2

PLANNING AN OFF-SITESYSTEM:

There are a few things to consider when planning an off-site water system:

• What is the source?

o Creeks, springs, sloughs, and rivers arenatural riparian areas and can beexcellent sources of stock water.

o Dugouts, dams or wells are human-made stock water sources and requirecapital investment. These sources areimportant in areas and pastures wherewater is not naturally present. Wellsprovide water where surface water is notavailable.

• What type of system?

o Pipelines (shallow or deep)

o Pump (submersible or surface)

o Gravity fed

o Spring development

o Access ramp

• What type of infrastructure?

o Specialized energy equipment (solarpanels, wind chargers, batteries,windmill)

o Pipe

o Trough or water bowl

o Fencing or stock panels

o Gravel or sand to provide a base aroundtrough

o Specialized well equipment (cribbing,pumphouse)

o Storage tanks

o Herd expansion potential and requiredinfrastructure

• How to power the system?

o Solar

o Wind

o Electricity

o Gravity

o Animal Power

o Stream flow

o Fossil Fuels

• Size Requirements?

o Storage capacity

o Type of animal watering (Cows withcalves or without? Yearlings? Sheep?)

o Maximum number of cattle that willrequire water from this system

o Distance and height/lift from watersource to trough

• Season of Use?

Off-site watering systems can be equipped tofunction throughout the year regardless of theweather. In the winter months, your systemmay require some important equipment ormaintenance to keep it from freezing. Wintersystems can be functional by preventing watertroughs from freezing using several methods:

o Insulated troughs with limited surfacewater exposed

o Propane heaters, or another source ofheat, which prevents water from freezing

o Circulating water, which continuouslymoves water throughout the system toprevent freezing

o Wet wells, which work by using the heatfrom the ground to keep a systemthawed

o Drain-back mechanisms, where all waterdrains back into the water source if it’snot consumed by the animal


3

There have been many changes in water systemsthroughout the past decade. Reliability and affordabilityare the two biggest changes in many of today’s watersystems. The movement from steel-based products topolyethylene-based products has made systems lighter,easier to handle and relatively maintenance free. Manyproducers have come up with new ideas to provide waterfor their livestock to fit their needs. Innovative systems

have been developed, and existing systems have beenrevamped, to suit budget and animal requirements. Inmany cases, producers have developed systems usingevery-day inexpensive recycled materials, common onmany farms, to create a low-cost but effective stock watersource. This guide has been developed to display some ofthese producer innovations from throughoutSaskatchewan.

One of the most important factors in implementing a stock water system is makingsure that the system has ample storage capacity and that it is checked regularly.Producers may want to think of a back-up water supply in the event that there is asystem malfunction. Planning ahead will help to ensure that livestock will have asteady supply of water, which can become critical in the summer months.


4

Bryce BringedahlMinton, Sask.

Type of System: Winter wet well powered by solar andwind energy

System Description: Bryce’s system consists of a 6 x 20foot culvert with 15 feet of perforated casing. The waterbowl consists of a double walled tub that fills from themiddle. The pump is turned on by a motion detector.After putting the system in, Bryce had trouble with thewet well freezing so he simply wired three plastic drumstogether and hung them under the water bowl inside thecasing. The smaller area for water to rise within thedrums kept the water from freezing by utilizing the

warmth from the ground and the water. Bryce has had noproblems since.

Benefits: The hybrid system Bryce installed allowed himto get his cattle out of the yard and relieve some of thepressure on his well. He has now been able to wintercalves while rejuvenating his pastures with manure andwinter feeding.

Comments: Bryce says that if he were to do it again, hewould have the water pumped from a dugout as areservoir into the wet well and a pipeline trenched outfrom his wet well to accommodate more troughs.

A view of the inside of the wet well showing thearrangement of the plastic drums

Water Source: WellPower: Solar and windAccommodates: 250 head of cattleFeature: Drain back systemSeason of Use: All season

Tip: Reduce the air space within a wet well to make better use of thegeothermal heat released by the water


5

Larry & Evelyn RoosenAntelope, Sask.

Type of System: Winter wind powered pump/floatpropane system

System Description: After losing cattle every yearthrough the dugout ice, Larry and Evelyn decided todevelop a safer watering system. There was no poweravailable at the winter water location so the Roosens duga well near a spring and placed a 6 x 8 foot building overthe well. The building was insulated and sheeted. A windcharger provides power to two six volt batteries that runthe submersible well pump. Water is pumped from thewell into a stock water trough that is located half insideand half outside the building. The water that sits in thetrough is heated by a propane heater to prevent freezing.

Comments: During the winter months Larry figures theunit uses approximately 100 lbs. of propane per month.The system had a few bugs with the propane heater, butprovided water for 130 head for three winters. Theircattle learned to stagger their drinking times and adaptedwell to the set-up. The cost of propane is one downfall ofthe system; however the Roosens find the system fairlylow maintenance otherwise. A modification they wouldsuggest is to put a lid on the enclosed half of the troughso that moisture and condensation did not accumulatewithin the building. They installed a vent in the wellhouse to help expel the moisture within the building, butthe vent froze up when the temperature got cold. Larryalso suggests having an extra battery to charge the systemif necessary.

Water Source: WellPower: WindAccommodates: 130 cowsFeature: Propane heaterSeason of Use: Winter

Half of trough is accessible to cattle and half isenclosed inside building

System components inside shelterPropane tanks and windmill system.


6

Dennis RudeLake Alma, Sask.

Type of System: Windmill

System Description: Dennis has harvested wind energyfor the past 15 years with his summer windmill. Powergenerated by the windmill is used to pump water from adugout. The water is then fed into a 1440 gallon holdingtank which gravity feeds from the tank into a troughlocated approximately 100 feet from the dugout andsystem.

Comment: Dennis believes that there is no need tochange something that works as he has had no significantproblems with the system since establishment. Whenasked why he decided to utilize a windmill system herelayed “there wasn’t solar power back in ’88 when I put

this system in and I haven’t had any problems with it sowhy change it?”

Water Source: DugoutPower: WindmillAccommodates: 120 head of cattleFeature: Storage tankSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Having a water storage tank as a back-up can prevent problemsif the pump system stops running.

Trough

Windmill, holding tank and pipeline

sdjlfjal;jldksf


7

Brian CornelsonHerbert, Sask.

Type of System: Summer solar system

System Description: Brian dug a small dugout that hefenced to prevent the cattle from directly accessing the

water. He built a solar watering system using a floatingpump to draw water from his dugout through a 1.5 inchwater line into a stock water trough. Concerned that hiscattle could damage parts of the float system, Briancreated a structure on top of the trough using a woodenpallet and some rough lumber that allows the cattle accessto the water, but nothing else. The cattle were alsorestricted from accessing the solar panel and electricalcomponents by surrounding the equipment with corralpanels. The system can be used up until freeze-up, as anywater that is in the pipe continuously drains back intothe dugout.

Comments: The system has allowed him to have moreflexibility with his grazing management and the potentialis there to use this system at multiple locationsthroughout the grazing season. He also feels the systemcould comfortably provide water for up to 50 pairs.

Water Source: DugoutPower: SolarAccommodates: 35 cow-calf pairsFeature: Drain back set upSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Drain-back mechanisms can help prevent freezing in the fall,but it is important to reduce contamination risks by draining the pipeonly.

Pallets and stock panels used to keep cattle away fromsystem components.


8

Todd & Dennis EricksonCentral Butte, Sask.

Type of System: Solar powered pump system

System Description: The Ericksons decided to set uptwo remote water systems on their operation. At one site,the water line was buried at a depth of 2 - 3 feet to carrywater from a dugout to a 600 gallon tank across the road,using a solar water pumping system. At the second site,water is again pumped from a dugout using a solar

pumping system, however, at this location the water lineis situated above ground. This site provides a source ofwater for animals in many different pastures and is usedinto the fall. The systems are able to provide water to 80cow-calf pairs out of each 600 gallon trough.

Comments: The Ericksons have a couple of suggestionsfor this type of system. They wish they would havemoved a single trough around to each system, rather thansetting them in place permanently. They also recommendthat the troughs are placed at a distance from thefenceline in order to prevent pressure on the fences,which leads to calves getting out.

Water Source: Dugout Power: SolarAccommodates: 80 cow-calf pairsFeature: Under road waterlineSeason of Use: Summer/Fall

Tip: Anytime water needs to bemoved from one quarter toanother it is important to checkinto the proper procedures for doing so and whether or not a permitmust be issued. Contacting your local Saskatchewan WatershedAuthority office to guide you in the right direction when planningwater pipeline systems.

Water source

Trough and supports


9

Dwayne and Karen FettesGladmar, Sask.

Type of System: Portable solar system

System Description: When Dwayne implemented thissystem, it featured two galvanized steel troughs, one forthe cows and a shorter trough that allows the calves easyaccess. A gravity feed system is used as additional storage.There are wooden planks surrounding the troughs toprevent cattle from standing in moist and mucky areas.The system pumps water from dugouts through bluecollapsible line. The pump is powered by solar panels.The connections, electrical workings, and pump, isfenced out with a portable electric fence to avoid damage.The rest of the dugout is not fenced; however it easilycould be by connecting the electric fence to the batterywith an adaptor. The cattle generally stay away from thedugout, preferring instead to drink fresh water from thetroughs.

Comments: Following installation of this system in 2000some modifications have been made. The holding tankon Dwayne’s system was white, which promotes algae

growth, so the new system now has a larger yellowholding tank and plastic trough. He hasn’t had anyexcessive algae growth since. Dwayne has alsoincorporated a rigid 1.5 inch hose on the system toreduce friction for easier pumping.

Water Source: DugoutsPower: SolarAccommodates: 200 cow-calf pairsFeature: Wooden slats around troughsSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Galvanized steel troughs, though durable, are fairly heavy topull in a portable system. Newer, lighter polyethelyne troughs arehandy in portable systems.

Overall set-up


10

Paul FradetteRadville, Sask.

Type of System: Portable Solar water system

System Description: Wanting to improve the poorlivestock distribution in his pastures, Paul decided todevelop several smaller dugouts in his pasture in additionto the one that he had been utilizing. With funding fromSaskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks UnlimitedCanada, and the Canadian Adaptation and RuralDevelopment in Saskatchewan, he implemented a solarwatering system mounted on a trailer to pump waterfrom his new dugouts into a trough that’s made from anold silage bunker. The trough is lowered to the ground inthe spring to allow calves to drink out of it. The waterfrom the pipes drains back into the dugout to preventfreezing later in the year. The dugouts are electricallyfenced, powered by the solar panels, and Paul leaves oneend of the fence open so the cattle can drink from thedugout if they choose.

Benefits: Paul prefers the smaller sized dugouts as hissource of water because there is less water loss throughevaporation, and trampling isn’t an issue. The system hasallowed Paul to achieve a rotational grazing system withmore uniform livestock distribution and provide thecattle with a clean source of water that will be sustainable.

Water Source: Dugouts, springsPower: SolarAccommodates: 150 cow-calf pairsFeature: Silage bunker water troughSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: When using a portable trailer system it may be beneficial tofence the trailer in with the dugout as cattle will rub on the trailerand possibly cause damage.


11

Blaine LohseBeaubier, Sask.

Type of System: Portable summer solar system

System Description: Cattle distribution was a problemon the Lohse ranch, so Blaine’s solution was to dig a wellin a previously under-utilized portion of his pasture andinstall a solar water pumping unit on this well. The 30foot well yields approximately 70 gallons/minute. Hebuilt a drill-stem fence around the well cribbing toprevent the cattle from damaging the well and the areaaround it. A portable solar water system pumps waterfrom the well into a large storage tank which then gravityfeeds into a small trough for calves and a large trough forcows.

Benefits: This system has helped to preventcontamination of the water sources that the cattle weredirectly accessing before the system was implemented.

Blaine has noticed that the cattle have performed well,and water quality improved and is more reliable usingthis system.

Comments: Blaine says, “I’d recommend this system toanybody,” saying he wouldn’t want to allow direct accessto a dugout again. If Blaine could change one thing onthe system, he would have made the system a permanentwater station, as opposed to a portable one as the systemhas stayed at the same site for the entire grazing season.Saskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks UnlimitedCanada, and the Canadian Adaptation and RuralDevelopment of Saskatchewan provided Blaine with somefunding to complete this project.

Water Source: WellPower: SolarAccommodates: 50 – 100 cow-calf pairsFeature: Gravity feed storage tankSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Wooden planks placed at the base of a portable system will keepthe cattle up out of moist and mucky soils which can alleviate hoofrot problems.

Well, protected by a sturdy enclosure


12

Murray & Selena McGillivrayRadville, Sask.

Type of System: Solar pump system

System Description: With the help of the PrairieConservation Action Plan and the SaskatchewanWatershed Authority the McGillivrays established a solarsystem that pumps water from a large dugout into apermanent trough that was created by cutting a longculvert in half. The trough is supported by posts on eitherside, and is low enough so that calves are able to drinkeasily. The dugout is L-shaped to provide extra waterstorage capacity, and access to the dugout is prevented bythe installation of a one-wire exclusion fence.

Benefits: The system has been in place for over five yearsand in that time, the dugout banks have significantlyrevegetated, improving the sediment trapping andfiltering capabilities of the area.

Comments: The McGillivrays find the system to bepractical and reliable, checking it once every three days.They would, however, make some minor modifications ifthey were developing it again. When installing the one-wire exclusion fence, they would place it even furtherfrom the dugout banks to allow for further protectionand vegetation regrowth.

Water Source: DugoutPower: SolarAccommodates: 100 cow-calf pairsFeature: L-shaped dugoutSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Arrange the angle of your solar panels to capture the mostsunlight possible. The angle will need to be changed depending on theseason of use.


13

Jeff Nergard Bengough, Sask.

Type of System: Remote solar powered system

System Description: With help from the PrairieConservation Action Plan, Nergard developed tworemote solar water stations. Each system consists of afloating submersible pump which moves the water fromthe source, in this case a dugout, to a trough located upon the banks. Although Jeff didn’t fence his dugouts out,he’s noticed that the cows prefer drinking water from atrough and spend minimal time in the dugouts. The offsite water system has helped to extend the life of thedugouts, as well as prevent animal health problems suchas foot rot.

Comments: One modification that Jeff made to thesystem was building a box in which to store the batteriesto prevent excess weathering. After seeing the positiveeffects of his first two water systems, Jeff has purchasedan additional system to further meet the needs of hisherd. After many seasons of use, Jeff still highlyrecommends implementing solar water systems, feelingthey have positively enhanced his cattle herd, pastures,and dugouts.

Water Source: DugoutPower: SolarAccomodates: 170 cow-calf pairsFeature: Homemade battery boxSeason of Use: Summer

Float system

Tip: Place your trough in alocation where the topographynaturally slopes away from thedugout, to prevent manure fromdraining back into the source.


14

Clem & Mina SandenCraik, Sask.

Type of System: Portable summer/fall solar system System Description: The Sandens have fenced off theirdugouts and now pump water from the dugouts into a300 gallon portable trough using solar energy. The systemis designed so that the water drains back into the dugoutwhen the pump stops, thus preventing freezing andmaking it a useful system even into late fall.

Benefits: The Sandens have noticed an improvement inthe health of their animals from the constant supply offresh water and have also noticed that their dugoutsregenerate and maintain seasonal flows sinceimplementing the system.

Comments: The Sandens have been happy with theresults of this system and are now contemplatingimproving their water supply in other pastures, this timeby utilizing a shallow pipeline.

Water Source: DugoutsPower: SolarAccommodates: 180 cow-calf pairsFeature: Drain back systemSeason of Use: Summer/Late Fall

Tip: Portable light-weighttroughs can be modified slightlyby developing a sturdy rackaround the edges to prevent thetrough from collapsing.


15

Dean SimonsonDinsmore, Sask.

Type of System: Solar powered pump from a wetland

System Description: After converting land susceptible toerosion to perennial cover, Dean needed to develop awatering system to utilize a nearby wetland for a cattlewatering source. Dean used a floating submersible pumpto move water through a 2 inch line into a large trough.This watering point can water two of his three differentpaddocks that form a rotational grazing system. Theproject has allowed Dean to develop a potentially fragilearea of land into a functional, stable source of grazing forhis cow herd.

Comments: One challenge Dean has faced with thesystem is to prevent wildlife damage to electricalconnections and wires.

Water Source: WetlandPower: SolarAccommodates: 45 cow-calf pairsFeature: Floating pump to move waterfrom a wetlandSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: There are many different sources of financial assistance fordeveloping systems, as they are recognized as an important aspect ofwater conservation efforts. Partnerships with SWA, DUC, and/or thecompletion of an Environmental Farm Plan are potential methods ofobtaining partial funding for a water system.

Panels and pump, situated at edge of marsh


16

Khris, Chrissy, & Stuart WebbPangman, Sask.

Type of System: Portable summer solar system

System Description: The Webbs have implemented asolar water system which pumps water from a dugoutthrough a 2 inch pipe, into a water trough. This portablesystem is able to move with the cow herd throughout theentire grazing season. The system is designed tocomplement the rotational grazing management that theWebb’s use on their ranch, as the solar system can providewater for up to nine paddocks at one water site. Thesystem has proven reliable, however it is checked oftenand the cattle can rely on dugouts in the event that the

system isn’t working. Recently the Webbs have installedadditional storage tanks for a reserve source. The Webbsplace an electric fence around the trough at each locationto prevent cattle from accessing the micro-switch floatand solar panels. The solar panels are used to power theelectric energizer.

Comments: The system has worked well since itsimplementation in 2001, and Khris notes that one of themost important features of the system is the regulator,which ensures the batteries are properly charged.

Water Source: DugoutPower: SolarAccommodates: 200 pairs or 300yearlingsFeature: System moves with the herdSeason of Use: Summer/Fall

Tip: When pumping water from a dugout or dam, cattle should haveemergency access to the water source in the event that the system fails.

Portable trailer and trough


17

Kevin & Colette WilsonTugaske, Sask.

Type of System: Solar powered pump water system System Description: In 2000, Kevin and Colette dug a100 foot well in a location that was central to allpaddocks. Due to the remote nature of the well, theyinstalled a solar pump that draws water from the well andinto two 400 gallon troughs. They poured a cement padaround the troughs to allow for stable, dry footing whilethe animals are drinking. The water system pumpsaround two gallons/minute and is able to support up to50 cow-calf pairs. Cattle are allowed access to the waterby alleyways that lead in from each paddock and the solarsystem is fenced out to prevent damage by the cattle.

Comments: The Wilsons have encountered only onesmall problem when the system was implemented, butthis was quickly alleviated when two more panels wereinstalled. All in all, the Wilsons have been very happywith their system and are actively developing new watersources in other tame pastures which will allow forfurther rest of their native prairie and help to protecttheir vital water resources.

Water Source: WellPower: SolarAccommodates: 50 cow-calf pairsFeature: Concrete pads around troughsSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Many water systems can bemodified to include dispensers foranti-bloat products such aslivestock detergent.

Concrete pad around troughs provides stable, dryfooting


18

Daryl & Linda WilesOgema, Sask.

Type of System: Portable solar watering system

System Description: Partnering with the SaskatchewanWatershed Authority, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and theCanadian Adaptation and Rural Development inSaskatchewan program, the Wiles installed a portablesolar watering system that can be easily moved aroundthe pastures as the cattle move. The system draws waterfrom the dugouts using a floating submersible pump. Thewater is pumped first into a trough and once fullcontinues to pump water into an elevated storage tank

located above the trough. The storage tank serves as aback-up and prevents the pump from cutting in toofrequently when a lot of cattle are drinking at once. Sinceimplementing this system, Wiles have noticed animprovement in their herd health as well as animprovement in water quality.

Comments: The Wiles have suggested that lower troughswould be useful so that calves have easier access. TheWiles fence off all, or portions, of their dugouts whilethis system is in use.

Water Source: DugoutsPower: SolarAccommodates: 60 cow-calf pairsFeature: Elevated storage tanksSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Troughs made of light-coloured material reflect, ratherthan absorb heat, and areeffective for summer use.

Floating pump


19

Simonson Farms, Elmer &Faye, Daryk & BonnieDinsmore, Sask.

Type of System: Portable Summer Solar System

System Description: The Simonsons have been graduallyseeding their cropland to perennial grassland andestablishing tame pasture that they manage in a rotationalgrazing system. In order to accomplish this, they neededto develop a reliable water source throughout theirpaddocks. Partnering with Ducks Unlimited Canada andthe Saskatchewan Watershed Authority the Simonsonsdeveloped a portable, solar stock water system that canpump water from any surface location, such as a dugoutor slough. The solar system consists of a floating pump

that pumps water into two 400 gallon troughs. Thesetroughs can accommodate up to 140 cow-calf pairs, and athird trough, can be added to accommodate an additional40 pairs. The entire system is situated on a custom-built,portable stand constructed of square-tubing and woodenslabs, and can be pulled from one paddock to another.

Comments: When getting the trailer and stand built,Daryk comments that they “may have gone overboard”with the reinforcement, but adds that you do want asturdy unit if you are moving it on a regular basis.

Water Source: Surface WaterPower: SolarAccommodates: 140 + 40 cow-calf pairsFeature: Custom-built trailerSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: Mount solar panels directly to the portable stand to keep themup and away from livestock activity.

Trailer features adjustable wheels


20

Gayland PankoMoose Jaw, Sask.

Type of System: Solar and gravity flow water system

System Description: In 2004, with the help of theSaskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks UnlimitedCanada, and the Canadian Adaptation and RuralDevelopment in Saskatchewan program, Gayland and hisfamily decided to turn his existing watering system into

an energy- and labour-efficient solar watering system.Using a spring with excellent quality water as the source,the Pankos pump the water into a 1250 gallon holdingtank before it gravity feeds into a trough throughcollapsible blue line. There are four solar panels to chargethe system and it generally takes 1.5 hours to fill up theholding tank. The system was designed with a lot ofingenuity, and features the use of recycled material,keeping costs low. The highlight of the entire system isthe float setup which regulates the flow of water from theholding tank. At the one end, a tire floats in the troughand is connected to a vertical metal bracket. This bracketis joined to a board situated at a 90° angle which pinchesthe collapsible hose closed when the trough is full. Thisportion of the trough is fenced out with electric wire toprevent the cattle from interfering with this unique set-up. The trough and the trailer were materials that thePankos had on hand when they were developing thissystem.

Comments: There is one limitation with the system inthat it only functions before freezing due to the aboveground water lines.

Water Source: SpringPower: SolarAccommodates: 350 cow-calf pairsFeature: Tire float systemSeason of Use: Summer

Collapsible pipe

Solar panels and holding tankAs the water level increases, the tire floats up, pinching off thewater supply


21

Murray & Selena McGillivrayRadville, Sask.

Type of System: Stabilized access point

System Description: The McGillivrays implemented anaccess ramp for their cattle to obtain water from a newlydeveloped dugout. By installing an access ramp with afence around the rest of the dugout they have allowedtheir cattle to utilize the water in the dugout, but limitthe amount of time that they spend directly in the wateror on the banks. They constructed an access ramp using

cobblerock as the base, with a rail fence located on bothsides of the ramp. The cobblerock allows the cattle tohave solid footing when they enter the water sourcewhich is preferable to a soft mud base.

Water Source: DugoutPower: NoneAccommodates: 40 cow-calf pairsFeature: Cobble rock access rampSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: An access ramp is an economical way to provide water out of adugout while protecting the banks from soil erosion.

Access points can be developed using rail fences, stockpanels, electric fence, or conventional barbed wirefence


22

Kirk NewtonChaplin, Sask.

Type of System: Stabilized Access Point

System Description: After seeing how his cattlestruggled to drink from the wet banks surrounding hisdugout, Kirk partnered with Ducks Unlimited Canada tocreate a stabilized access point on his dugout. DucksUnlimited built up the access point with rocks and graveland Kirk fenced out the banks of the dugout on threesides and fenced through the dugout on the fourth side.In doing this, Kirk created an access point for the cattleto drink from and was able to protect the rest of thedugout from direct access.

Benefits: This access point project was a way to keep thecattle from getting stuck in the dugout and helps to

preserve the sustainability of the dugout by not allowingthem to track up the sides and shores. The system hasalso made traveling past the dugout easier for Kirk as heis now able to access his other pastures with his truck bydriving over his access point

Water Source: DugoutPower: NoneAccommodations: 50-70 cow-calf pairsFeature: Access point allows for vehiclepassageSeason of Use: Summer

Access point

Dugout

Shoreline of access point.

Tip: Water quality in dugoutscan greatly improve when thebanks are able to revegetate andact as a filter for runoff sedimentand other contaminants.


23

Michael & Tamela BurgessBig Beaver, Sask.

Type of System: Gravity feed system and frost free waterbowls

System Description: The Burgesses have developed anenergy free water system on their ranch. The main watersource for most of their ranch consists of a 14 foot deeplarge diameter well casing dug into a spring in the side ofa hill. The water from this well flows with enoughpressure to supply water to seven stock water bowls, ayard hydrant, and provide water to the main level of theirhouse. The Burgesses also use fiberglass frost free waterbowls operating on a pump fed system. Water enters thefrost free bowl from 1.25 inch lines that are all buried ata depth of 8-9 feet to prevent any problems with freezing.A float valve that is located inside the trough and awayfrom cattle access regulates the water flow The watercarries enough heat from the ground to prevent it fromfreezing when it enters the bowl. The water bowls areheavily insulated and partially buried which helps toprevent freezing.

Comments: Because there is no water circulation,Michael suggests cleaning the bowls out once a year. Ifwinter conditions are severe and the water begins tofreeze, Michael installs a floating heater to keep the wateropen.

Water Source: WellPower: NoneAccommodates: 400 calves on the gravityfeed and 500 cows on the winter systemFeature: Fibreglass frost free water bowlsSeason of Use: All season

Well

A view of the well and a nearby fiberglass all seasonwater trough, partially buried

Tip: To prevent freezing, it is very important to meet the requirednumber of cattle that the system can handle in order to ensure regularturnover of the water.


24

Wayne CrawfordWillow Bunch, Sask.

Type of System: Spring development

System Description: When developing his spring fedsystem Wayne dug until he reached coal then laid aculvert lengthwise, and connected the culvert to apipeline through a hole made in the culvert. The wateraccumulates in the culvert and runs out the pipeline intothe troughs. Crawford uses three 600 gallon troughs andthe spring runs into these troughs at about 8gallons/minute. In his tire trough system the water entersthe trough through a 3 inch pipe. The trough has acenter steel pipe casing that stands about 6 inches above

the highest water level. There is a pipe extending out theside of the center casing at full water level. When waterreaches the height of this pipe, the water runs back intothe center casing and drains out an underground pipe toa run off area away from the trough. This overflow pipeallows Wayne to divert water away from the trough,keeping the area dry where cattle stand to drink.Crawford also has a second spring fed trough thatfeatures a steel basin. This system does not have anoverflow diversion pipeline, rather excess water tricklesout the top of the tub.

Comments: Crawford has had no significant problemswith the systems. Sometimes the tire trough springsystem cannot keep up to the cattle’s watering needs, butit is rarely a problem as there are other water sources inthe pasture such as other runs and springs. He has alsoimplemented two more spring development systems thatutilize weeping tile and crushed rock to accumulate waterinstead of the culvert. In Wayne’s area the water is veryhigh in iron and he feels that eventually the culvert willrust out. He feels the weeping tile and crushed rocksystem is the preferred method to prevent the rustdamage.

Water Source: SpringPower: NoneAccommodates: 230 cow-calf pairsFeature: Overflow diversion pipeSeason of Use: All season

Tire trough system

The inflow pipe is protected by a short plank fenceOverflow diversion


25

Raymond & Robert PrefontaineLisieux, Sask.

Type of System: Gravity feed system

System Description: With some planning assistance andsite engineering from PFRA, brothers Raymond andRobert Prefontaine developed a gravity flow system that

utilized water from an existing 8 foot well cribbinglocated near a spring. They installed 500 feet of 3 inchhigh density polyethelyne water line in a down-gradefrom the well to a trough. The trough holdsapproximately 250 gallons and was made by cutting thelast 2 feet off of the end of a rail car. The Prefontainesinstalled a cement pad around the waterer to stabilize thesystem and provide solid footing for the cattle. Thetrough is situated at an elevation approximately 5 feetlower than the well and when the water reaches a certainlevel in the trough, it overflows into another 3 inch highdensity water line. This overflow line discharges the waterinto a seasonal water run located 500 feet away from thetrough. The water is constantly moving into the troughwhich prevents it from freezing.

Comments: The system is low maintenance, requiringfew inputs. The only modification that Raymond wouldsuggest if someone were installing a similar system wouldbe to incorporate a larger trough with more capacity.

Water Source: Spring fed wet wellPower: None – gravity fedAccommodates: 280 cowsFeature: Rail car water troughSeason of Use: All season

Inflow pipe and trough

Overflow pipe.

Tip: Troughs can be made from many different materials, includingrecycled machinery tires, fuel tanks or even cutting the end off a railcar.

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26

John AitkenEyebrow, Sask.

Type of System: Pasture pipeline

System Description: In2002 John developed awater pipeline thatextended 3/4 of a milefrom the well at his farmto a centralized position inhis pasture. Pleased withhis first project, Johnpartnered with theSaskatchewan WatershedAuthority in 2004 andtrenched three additionalmiles of pipeline thatconnected onto hisoriginal pipeline. Thewater first runs from hishome well into a cistern in

the barn, where a pressure tank is located. From the barn,the water is pumped into the line which has two differentwatering stations that can accommodate portable troughs.John has two portable troughs that can collectively holdapproximately 1,000 gallons. This project allowed John todivide his two larger fields into five smaller ones,separating the tame grass from the native prairie.

Benefits: John is now able to manage his tame and nativepastures as separate parcels, allowing the health of hisnative pastures to improve. As John is able to betterutilize his tame grass, he is able to defer grazing on hisnative prairie until September.

Comments: John feels that moving and maintaining thewater system can sometimes be a daunting task, howeverthe cattle now stay out of the wetlands and dugouts andhe has more control over his grazing management.

Water Source: WellPower: ElectricityAccommodates: 120 cow-calf pairsFeature: Over 3 miles of pipelineSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: A producer should check with their local Rural Municipalitywhen trenching across, through, or under road allowances.

Pipeline

Well


27

Paul HoferRose Valley Colony,Assiniboia, Sask.

Type of System: Power pasture pipeline

System Description: Paul had experienced an increase infoot rot in pastures where the cattle had direct access todugouts. He also dealt with a shortage of water in dryyears. As a solution, he developed a power operated

pipeline system that is low maintenance and highlyreliable. Paul’s system provides water to cattle spread overseven paddocks and 340 acres and he believes the systemcould handle up to 500 head. Power is used to bringwater from a dugout up to a pumphouse where it isdiverted one half mile east and west through a 1.5 inchhigh density pipeline. The pipeline then branches toreach troughs located in seven different paddocks. Thepipeline is equipped with a medication system, allowingPaul to easily mass treat using the water line. Paul runsthis system from May to October, at which time he blowsout the lines with air pressure.

Comments: Paul experienced very few problems whenestablishing the system. Paul found that his first suctionline had pin holes in it and his system was losing itsprime. After replacing the suction hose, his problem wassolved.

Water Source: DugoutPower: ElectricityAccommodates: 110 cow-calf pairsFeature: Equipped for mass medicationSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: It is important to blow outpipelines in late fall to preventthe pipeline from freezing andsplitting.

Trough, stabilized with posts


28

Jarrod and Tammy KlassenCentral Butte, Sask.

Type of System: Pasture pipeline

System Description: Seeking a stable source of water, theKlassens ran 7400 feet of shallow pipeline from the wellin their yard out to various pastures, setting up fivedifferent water stations along the way. They purchased aportable 600 gallon trough with a float which they wereable to move easily from station to station. One waterstation can provide a source of water for several paddocks,reducing the number of times the trough has to bemoved.

Benefits: Providing a steady supply of water to their tamepastures throughout the spring and summer has allowedKlassens to defer grazing their native prairie until the fall.

Comments: Very pleased with the results, the Klassensare considering expanding the pipeline, to better serve theneeds of their expanding herd and land base. TheSaskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks UnlimitedCanada, and the Canadian Adaptation and RuralDevelopment in Saskatchewan program helped to fundthis project.

Water Source: WellPower: ElectricityAccommodates: 140 cow-calf pairsFeature: Portable 600 gallon tankSeason of Use: Summer

Establishing water stations in key locations maximizethe number of paddocks that can be serviced

Tip: Off-site watering systems are efficient, handy, andenvironmentally beneficial, but none are 100% reliable. It issuggested that when a watering system is implemented a back upsystem is also available if the primary system fails. Developing a largecapacity water storage system may be a worthwhile investment. If youdon’t have a back up system in place, it is important that the system ischecked daily to ensure proper functioning.


29

Andy & Jacqui MartynookDunkirk, Sask.

Type of System: Summer pipeline System Description: The Martynooks developed ashallow pipeline water system with help from theSaskatchewan Watershed Authority. The pipeline isconnected to a hydrant that runs off of the farm’s pressuresystem located in their house. The pipeline is 1500 feetlong, trenched 18 inches deep, and carries water to atrough located in the middle of their pastures. When thecattle are grazing, the Martynooks leave the hydrantrunning and a float valve in the trough regulates waterflow. The rolling topography provided some challengesfor trenching; however they haven’t had any problemswith the system as long as they drain it properly beforefreeze up. They also have release valves located at the highspots along the pipeline to prevent air locks in the system.

Comments: The only thing the Martynooks wouldchange is designing the trough so that it can water twoseparate herds simultaneously.

Water Source: WellPower: ElectricityAccommodates: 35 cow-calf pairsFeature: Garden Hydrant ConnectionSeason of Use: Summer

The pipeline is connected to the water source througha simple garden hydrant connection

Tip: When trenching a shallow pipeline through different elevations,locate and mark release valves to prevent air locks.


30

Tom & Joanne McKeeKilldeer, Sask.

Type of System: Gravity fed pipeline system System Description: The McKees implemented aninnovative project on their operation for the purpose ofdistributing water throughout their pastures. Tom uses ahigh pressure gas powered pump to pump water from adugout through a quarter mile of pipeline to the 11.4thousand gallon refurbished hopper bottom bins. Tomoptimized his pumping speed by pumping the water intothe tank from the bottom instead of making the pumppush the water to the top of the bin. From the bin thewater is gravity fed back through separate pipelines totroughs available in five different paddocks. The binsused in the system cost around $6000 each and thestrong tire troughs that Tom uses run about $1000. Thesystem fills troughs at a rate of 70 gallons/minute andTom has had no problems with the system sinceestablishment.

Comments: This system has made the McKee’s operationa little more hassle free. Tom turns the pump on forapproximately three hours every couple of days to fill thehopper. In extreme heat he must fill the hopper everyday. Tom has developed another system similar to hisfirst. Tom decided to put tombstone feeders around histroughs on the second system to prevent the cows frommoving the troughs when they get low or pushing incalves. At the end of the grazing season Tom opens theends of the pipeline and lets the water drain out, hedoesn’t blow the line out and hasn’t had any problemswith water freezing in the pipeline.

Water Source: DugoutPower: Gas powered pumpAccommodates: 250 cow-calf pairsFeature: Defective fertilizer bins aswater storageSeason of Use: Summer

Two different trough types used on the gravity feedpipeline


31

Brad DunnOgema, Sask.

Type of System: Summer gravity feed system

System Description: Brad has been fencing his dugoutsand pumping water into troughs for years. He firststarted using a gas-powered motor to pump water into aholding tank mounted on a portable stand. The water isgravity fed into 250 gallon troughs, which Brad hascreated from recycled fuel tanks. Two or three times perweek Brad needs to start his pump to fill the holdingtank. Looking for a less labour-intensive alternative watersystem, he recently partnered with Saskatchewan

Watershed Authority to develop a portable solar wateringsystem that works in a similar manner, using source waterfrom dugouts or a well.

Comments: When Brad used to allow his cattle directaccess to the dugout, it was costly as he needed to re-excavate his dugouts on a frequent basis. Since fencing hisdugouts and developing off-site watering, Brad hasreduced maintenance costs while improving water qualityfor his cattle.

Water Source: Dugout or wellPower: Gas powered pumpAccommodates: 45 cow-calf pairsFeature: Recycled fuel tank troughSeason of Use: Summer

Tip: It is very important to monitor watering systems, especially whenthey are initially set up.

Since fencing the dugout, the banks have revegetatedwith riparian plants, such as cattails and sedges. Theseplants are critical in filtering nutrients and sedimentduring runoff.


32

Simonson Farms, Elmer &Faye, Daryk & BonnieDinsmore, Sask.

Type of System: Pipeline with Gravity Flow Troughs

System Description: The Simonsons have been graduallyseeding their cropland to perennial grassland andestablishing tame pasture that they manage in a rotationalgrazing system. In order to accomplish this, they neededto develop a reliable water system that wouldaccommodate their moving cattle herd. Working withPFRA, the Simonsons established 16 km of 1 and 2 inchshallow pipeline sourced from a well at their farmyard.There are several branches off the pipeline in variouspastures to which they can connect two 1300 gallon

water tanks. These water tanks are elevated and mountedon a drill stem skid-frame which can be pulled frompaddock to paddock. Water is stored in these tanks andflows into portable stock water troughs by gravity.

Comments: Simonsons empty the water tanks and pullthe stand to the next pipeline hook-up with a truck whenneeded. “The hook up is a simple Banjo style coupler andwe like to use skids on the tanks because it’s simple tohook up and go. We are fortunate also because all of ourland is connected.”

Water Source: WellPower: Electricity (pipeline) & Gravity(from tanks into trough)Accommodates: 50-300 pairs dependingon size and quantity of troughsSeason of Use: Spring, Summer, early Fall

Tip: When using a gravity flow system, it is important to have enoughstorage capacity if all animals come in to drink at once, or duringperiods of hot weather.

Holding tank and stand, featuring skids for portability

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33

Neil & George AlexanderAvonlea, Sask.

Type of System: Frost free nose pump

System Description: To utilize some of their newlydeveloped pastures, the Alexanders partnered with theSaskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks UnlimitedCanada, and the Canadian Adaptation and RuralDevelopment in Saskatchewan to develop a remotewatering system. The Alexanders decided to install a frostfree nose pump that draws water from a nearby dugout.The frost free nose pump is situated on an insulated wellcasing that is connected to the dugout by a 2 inch pipe.The cow pushes the pump with her nose, which activatesthe piston pump located within the well, working on thesame principle as old fashioned hand pumps. The systemremains frost-free, due to the ground heat, as well as asmall drain hole which allows excess water to drain fromthe suction pipe when the cattle stop drinking.

Benefits: By using the cow as the power source, the inputand maintenance costs to keep this system running arevery low.

Comments: This system requires some time and trainingfor the cattle to get used to using it.

Water Source: Dugout/Wet wellPower: Cattle operatedAccommodates: 120 cow-calf pairsFeature: Relies on geothermal heatSeason of Use: All season

Tip: Manufacturers usually have suggested tips and tricks to followwhen training animals to obtain water from systems like these andothers.


34

David BlanchardMoose Jaw, Sask.

Type of System: All season solar powered pump and wetwell

System Description: Partnering with the SaskatchewanWatershed Authority, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and theCanadian Adaptation and Rural Development ofSaskatchewan, David developed a solar-powered wateringsystem that pumps water from a dugout into a wet well.Water is then pumped from the well into a winter waterbowl that has a drain back mechanism that prevents thewater from staying in the bowl and freezing. The pumpruns on a motion detection sensor, so the pump startswhen there is animal movement at the water bowl. Thepump shuts off when the animals leave.

Benefits: The watering system is located on higherground in the pasture, which prevents the cattle fromcongregating in the nearby dugout and ravine in thepasture. This area is susceptible to spring flooding sokeeping cattle out of these low areas during the winterprevents a lot of excess livestock waste and nutrients from

traveling downstream in the spring. There is also less riskof cattle falling through the ice while trying to obtainwater from a dugout.

Comments: There are a few modifications that Davidwould make to the system. He would like to develop abetter stand for the solar panels to prevent them frommoving in the wind and would attach a second waterbowl to the same system, allowing more animals to waterat once. David has experienced some problems with themotion detector remaining activated and draining thedugout from which it was operating. Also, if cattle aremilling around the bowl, but not drinking, the pump willcause the water to over flow from the bowl, causing ice tobuild around the system in the wintertime. Davidsuggests that a solar system operating on a motiondetector would be a good system – if it is possible tocheck the system every day. It is unfeasible for David tocheck their system daily and he has since installedelectricity to ensure the reliability of their system.

Water Source: DugoutPower: SolarAccommodates: 125 cowsFeature: Motion detector pump systemSeason of Use: All season


35

Jack Laturnus, Waldorf RanchBethune, Sask.

Type of System: Thermosink© winter water system

System Description: Instead of trenching power out tohis pasture site, Jack decided to purchase Thermosink©

watering bowls which only require a pressurized waterline to operate. The system consists of two insulateddrinking cylinders located on either side of a centralcolumn, all approximately 8 feet long. The system is

buried 7 feet underground. Water enters the centralcolumn through the pressurized line attached near to thebottom of the column. A float system and shut off valveare located in the central column on a pitless adaptor.Both drinking cylinders hold 60 gallons of water eachand can provide water for up to 200 head. The watercontinuously circulates between the central column andthe drinking cylinders, which prevents freezing. Eachdrinking cylinder has a removable tapered bowl which theanimals drink from. The drinking cylinders sit 12-18”above ground which prevents dirt and manure fromrunning into the cylinders.

Benefits: Jack has liked the system so much he hasrecently installed another. He likes the fact that there areno parts to rust and the system is simple to maintain.The system can be used through all seasons, so there is anadded flexibility to the pasture area and cattle can grazethis pasture at different times of the year.

Water Source: WellPower: Pressurized water lineAccommodates: up to 400 cowsFeature: Insulated plastic designSeason of Use: All season

Tip: Use screws to secure theremovable tapered drinking bowlsto the drinking columns as wellas the lid on the centre cylinderto prevent cattle from removingthem and causing damage.Construction shelters around thesystem can prevent the area fromblowing full of snow which canlead to freezing.

A view of the tapered bowl sitting within the drinkingcylinder


36

Glen EkertWapella, Sask.

Type of System: Frost free water bowl with pressurizedpipeline

System Description: Glen wanted an energy efficientwinter watering system so he opted to install a frost freewater bowl utilizing a pressurized pipeline system. Glen

trenched in a water line to a 12 inch culvert wrapped insilver housing insulation. The frost free bowl sits atop theculvert which extends 8 feet below the actual trough. Thesystem is able to produce about 10 gallons a minute andthe insulation keeps the system from freezing up atreduced temperatures. Glen had power run to the waterbowl as a back up so a heater could be put in if thesystem froze up. So far the system has not frozen, butGlen has yet to use the system through the entire winter.Glen’s current grazing plan does not call for the cattle tobe in this particular area all winter, it is an off site systemfor early spring and late fall grazing. The system is shutoff after use and a stop and drain system causes the waterin the pipeline to drain back. Water can be drained fromthe water bowl via a plug in the water bowl.

Water Source: WellPower: Pressurized water lineAccommodates: 300 cow-calf pairsFeature: Insulated culvert well casingSeason of Use: Early spring/late fall

Tip: It’s important to providestable footing for livestock whenwatering from troughs. This isespecially critical in winter, whenice builds up around the system.Concrete pads, heavy lumber, oreven gravel and sand can providea secure foundation for a trough.


37

Kurt FiechterCeylon, Sask.

Type of System: Solar winter water system

System Description: When Kurt was looking for awinter water system, he took contamination risks intoconsideration. With the help of the SaskatchewanWatershed Authority, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and theCanadian Adaptation and Rural Development in

Saskatchewan, he opted for a solar winter water systemthat didn’t allow the bowl to drain back into his watersource. Kurt was able to pump water from a spring usingsolar power into a well. The system holds 60 gallons ofwater warmed by a small propane flame containedunderneath the bowl approximately 4 inches from anyside walls. A submersible pump is set within the wellcasing which pumps the water up to the bowl. Since thewater does not drain back from the bowl, the flame isnecessary to keep it from freezing. There is 8 inches ofinsulation surrounding the entire system.

Comments: Kurt’s only suggestion would be a largercapacity system. He feels that when a large group of cattleare coming to drink the bowl does not refill fast enough.

Water Source: SpringPower: Solar with propane heatAccommodates: 110 cowsFeature: Propane heated water bowlSeason of Use: All season

Tip: A well-placed rail fence can protect a system and its componentsfrom cattle activity while still allowing access for maintenance.

Propane tank for bowl flame


38

Jack & Steve GunterVal Marie, Sask.

Type of System: Thermosink© winter water system

System Description: The Gunters purchased two doublebowl Thermosink© systems after fluctuations in theirwater source caused watering problems for their cattle.Gunters opted for the double unit because they felt it wasworth the extra cost. The double unit is worth around$1500, while the single unit is worth around $1200. Thedouble system is comprised of two polyethelene cylindersacting as water storage tanks with tapered drinking bowlsset in the top. There is a central column that contains apitless adapter and float system. These cylinders are allaround 8 feet long, hold 61 gallons per cylinder, and aresurrounded by insulation. The tubes are buried 7 feetunderground with 12-18 inches exposed above ground.Water is constantly self -circulating within the holdingtubes to avoid freezing. The system works on apressurized pipeline system. In the Gunter’s case the wateris trenched 1500 feet to the system from a well at theyard site. Each water system is able to accommodate 200

head of cattle, so with two double bowled systems theGunters are able to provide water to 400 head if needed.

Benefits: The system has yet to freeze up and it requiresno energy to operate. The Gunters haven’t had a singleproblem with the system since they installed it.

Comments: The Gunters suggest that the system isexposed above ground at least 12” so that run off ordebris cannot make its way into the system.

Water Source: WellPower: Pressurized water lineAccommodates: 210 head of cattleFeature: Circulation systemSeason of Use: All season

Tip: Lids should be made for thewatering bowls on a Thermosink© system when it is not in use tokeep curious rodents and birds out of the water bowls.

A view of the tapered bowl when it is removed fromthe cylinder

Float in centre column


39

Don & Beth SimeniukKilldeer, Sask.

Type of System: All season well pump

System Description: After relocating their corrals tohigher ground, Simeniuks decided to develop an allseason watering system. They dug in a 25 foot wellcribbing and connected it to an already existing dugoutusing a 2 inch water line with a screened intake. Insidethe cribbing is a submersible pump on a pitless adaptorthat pumps water into a 1000 gallon stock water troughthrough a water line that is buried below the frost. The

system is designed to withstand winter temperatures andhas an insulated plywood cover over the trough toprevent freezing in the winter. Water is continuouslypumped into the trough, causing constant agitation ofthe water, thus preventing freezing. There is no float onthe system, so excess water drains back into the wellthrough an overflow line that is also buried at a depth of8 feet. This system runs on electricity and provides wateryear-round for the herd. The water trough is only 2 feethigh, easily allowing calves access to the water.

Comments: Don notes they have switched to a biggerpump with a bigger intake to prevent organic matterfrom plugging the system and they would like toeventually install a sewer pump.

Water Source: Wet wellPower: ElectricityAccommodates: up to 300 cow-calf pairsFeature: Recirculation systemSeason of Use: All season

Tip: For year-round wateringsystems, use a shallow troughwhich easily allows young calvesaccess to water.

Wet well Water enters trough constantly which agitates watersurface, preventing freezing


40

Kelly WallBorden, Sask.

Type of System: Electrified pump/float system

System Description: Kelly Wall decided to bring inelectricity for his winter water system. He developed an

electrical pump/float system in his shallow well. Kellydecided to trench from the well to a nearby bank andinstalled a 20 foot culvert horizontally within the bank tocollect water. The bank acts as an insulator for theculvert. The completely enclosed culvert emerges fromthe bank at one end to expose a 2 foot square accesspoint. The cattle are able to drink from this area. Thewell provides approximately 7-8 gallons of water perminute.

Comments: Kelly has had no trouble with the systemsince he installed it but feels that he could be wateringmore livestock from this system. There has been somefine tuning over the past 15 years, but nothing costly.Kelly says the ground provides enough insulation to keepthe culvert thawed most of the winter, but when it getsreally cold he throws in a heating element to make surethe system doesn’t freeze.

Water Source: WellPower: ElectricityAccommodates: 150 head of cattleFeature: Culvert troughSeason of Use: All season

Tip: When power isavailable, have aheating element handyto put in troughs whenweather becomes verycold.

Cattle access hole.

Culvert in bank


41

Shawn GriffinElbow, Sask.

Type of System: Solar winter water system

System Description: Wanting to give their nativepastures a rest by turning them into fall and winter fields,Shawn Griffin and his partner Julie developed a winterwater system to fit this plan. They chose to bore a 70 footwell and install a 4.5 inch well casing, drawing waterfrom the well into a winter water trough using solarpower. The system allows excess water to drain back intothe well, thereby preventing the water pipes fromfreezing. The floor, sides, and lid of the trough are

insulated, and the cattle can drink from three inverteddrinking tubes. Each drinking tube accommodates 100head of cattle, and the tubes allow a very small amount ofexposed surface area from which animals obtain water,again to prevent freezing. The batteries are also kept in aninsulated plywood box, and the whole system, except forthe trough, is surrounded by stock panels to prevent thecattle from damaging the system. Shawn and Julie stillallow their cows open access to the three dugouts that arein their wintering field, however the animals prefer todrink out of the trough. They check their system everyother day, and find that the only maintenance it requiresis to change the angle of the solar panels from time totime.

Benefits: This simple, practical system takes less than aday to set up and it allows Shawn and Julie to defergrazing on their native pasture, reducing their winteringcosts and providing their cattle with a clean water source.

Water Source: WellPower: SolarAccommodates: up to 300 headFeature: Drain back mechanismSeason of Use: Winter

Tip: In the off-season, panels may be usedfor many applications on a ranch, toobtain maximum use of this capitalinvestment.Drinking tubes

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42

Lorne KleinFrancis, Sask.

Type of System: High volume water trough

System Description: Lorne used plastic sheets to create ahigh volume water trough for his elk operation. Thelength and width of the trough is 14 x 24 feet. It is 2.5feet high, and holds approximately 5250 gallons. Thisequates to approximately 4500 working gallons, as hedoesn’t let the water level get too low before re-filling. Aproducer would never want less than 4 inches of water inthis type of trough. Too little water can cause the liner tolift in windy days, increasing the chance of a tear.Otherwise, the liner lasts for years, assuming no calvesjump into the trough and puncture it. Lorne uses a 2inch gas pump to fill the trough and a full trough usuallylasts his animals a week, even in high temperatures.

Comments: Lorne’s trough allows him to continuegrazing later into the fall than he otherwise would. He isable to use the trough even after it starts to freeze atnight. He says that the trough will accumulate up to 1inch of ice on the surface and still thaw during the day.When the trough accumulates around 2 inches of iceovernight Lorne discontinues use of the trough. Lornehas had no major problems with the system but says thathe would not build the exact model again. He feels thereare easier ways to build a similar effective trough.Although the trough was relatively cheap Lornementioned that it took many man hours to build it. Hesuggests an easier method that involves putting poles intothe ground, nailing planks to the inside of the poles, thenlining the planks with the silage liner. A disadvantage ofthis type of trough is that it is not portable. Lorne notesthat it would take days to dissassemble this trough andmove it.

Water Source: DugoutPower: Gas powered pumpAccommodates: 80 elkFeature: Plastic trough linerSeason of Use: Summer / Early fall

Tip: With this type of system, water should be left in the troughthroughout winter to maintain the liner and system in place. Whenusing high volume water troughs, it is important not to let waterlevels get too low. “Working gallons” refers to gallons the cattleconsume before the trough should be refilled.


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Doug and Jackie HinesSaltcoats, Sask.

Type of System: Ultra High volume water trough

System Description: Doug used some common materialsto create a high volume water trough for his yearlinggrazing operation near Saltcoats, SK. The Hine’s graze2000 yearlings and needed a low cost way to supply ahigh volume of water to their cattle who all want to drinkat the same time. Their solution was to line a woodentrough with a hay tarp. The yearlings are kept in groupsof roughly 500 head and rotationally grazed throughnumerous pastures. The length and width of the trough is28 x 42 feet. It is 2 feet in height and holdsapproximately 20,000 gallons. Doug fills the trough witha 2 inch gas pump.

At the time of construction the hay tarp cost $250 andDoug estimates that the balance of the materials costroughly $500.

Comments: Doug’s trough could be used fairly late inthe year as the high volume of water would be fairlyresistant to freezing. Some ravens poked some holes inthe top of the tarp that has required some maintenancebut other than that the trough has been largely troublefree. The hay tarp was laid directly on the dirt with onlysome minor leveling required before construction.Overall, it has proven successful as a low cost method ofsupplying a large quantity of water in a remote location.

Water Source: DugoutPower: Gas powered pumpAccommodates: 500 yearlingsSeason of Use: Summer / Early fallFeature: 20,000 gallon capacity


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Agencies & Organizations That CanProvide Information & Assistance onRiparian Areas & Riparian Management

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRA408 CIBC Tower1800 Hamilton Street, Regina, SK S4P 4L2Phone (306) 780-5070Website www.agr.gc.ca/pfra

Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaPFRA Shelterbelt CentreP.O. Box 940, Indian Head, SK S0G 2K0Phone (306) 695-2284Toll Free 1-866-766-2284Website www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/shelterbelt

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 1150, Watrous, SK S0K 4T0Phone (306) 946-8720

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRA1410 A Caribou Street WestMoose Jaw, SK S6H 7S9Phone (306) 691-3370

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRARoom 121, 9800 Territorial PlaceNorth Battleford, SK S9A 3N6Phone (306) 446-4050

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRA615 Railway AveWeyburn, SK S4H 0A9Phone (306) 848-4488

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 1748, Melfort, SK S0E 1A0Phone (306) 752-4442

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRA1011 – 11 Innovation Blvd.Saskatoon, SK S7N 3H5Phone (306) 975-4693

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 130, Melville, SK S0A 2P0Phone (306) 728-5790

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 1420, Rosetown, SK S0L 2V0Phone (306) 882-4272

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAL.B. Thompson PlaceGate No. 2, SPARC, Airport RoadP.O. Box 1088, Swift Current, SK S9H 3X3Phone (306) 778-5000

Agriculture Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 155, Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0Phone (306) 648-2214

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – PFRAP.O. Box 430, Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0Phone (306) 662-5520

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre901 McKenzie St. SouthP.O. Box 700, Outlook, SK S0L 2N0Phone (306) 867-5400

Ducks Unlimited Canada (Saskatchewan ProvincialOffice)P.O. Box 4465, 1030 Winnipeg Street Regina, SK S4P 3W7Phone (306) 569-0424Website – www.ducks.ca

Ducks Unlimited Canada (Saskatchewan Offices) 202 1301 101st St.North Battleford, SK S9A 0Z9Phone (306) 445-2575

P.O. Box 2139Highway #3 WestMelfort, SK S0E 1A0Phone (306) 752-2791

603 45th Street WestSaskatoon, SK S7L 5W5Phone (306) 665-7356

P.O. Box 670, 77 1st Street NEWadena, SK S0A 4J0Phone (306) 338-3677

P.O. Box 1299Highway #16A WestYorkton, SK S3N 2X3Phone (306) 782-2108


45

P.O. Box 727Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1Y5Phone (306) 236-6662

P.O. Box 250Highway #123Cumberland House, SK S0E 0S0Phone (306) 888-2149

Saskatchewan Environment3211 Albert StreetRegina, SK S4S 5W6Phone 1-800-567-4224Website www.se.gov.sk.ca

Saskatchewan Forage CouncilP.O. Box 1715Outlook, Sk., S0L 2N0Phone 1-306-966-2148 Website www.saskforage.ca

Saskatchewan Soil Conservation AssociationP.O. Box 1360Indian Head, SK S0G 2K0Phone (306) 695-4233Website www.ssca.ca

Saskatchewan Stock Growers AssociationBox 4752, Main Floor, Canada CentreIpsco Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Phone (306) 757-9499Website www.skstockgrowers.com

Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation9 Lancaster RoadMoose Jaw, SK S6J 1M8Phone (306) 692-8812Website www.swf.sk.ca

Saskatchewan Watershed Authority (Head Office)111 Fairford Street EastMoose Jaw, SK S6H 7X9Phone (306) 694-3900Website www.swa.ca

Saskatchewan Watershed Authority (Regional Offices)Northeast (Nipawin)P.O. Box 2133201 – 1st Ave EastNipawin, SK S0E 1E0Phone (306) 862-1750

Northwest (North Battleford)402 Royal Bank Tower1101 – 101st StNorth Battleford, SK S9A 0Z5Phone (306) 446-7450

Southwest (Swift Current)P.O. Box 5000350 Cheadle St WestSwift Current, SK S9H 4G3Phone (306) 778-8257

Southeast (Weyburn)P.O. Box 2003110 Souris AveWeyburn, SK S4H 2Z9Phone (306) 848-2345

East Central (Yorkton)2nd floor, 120 Smith St EastYorkton, SK S3N 3V3Phone (306) 786-1490

Saskatchewan Watershed Authority (Other Offices)

ReginaSuite 420 – 2365 Albert StRegina, SK S4P 4K1Phone (306) 787-0726

Saskatoon330 – 350 3rd Ave NorthSaskatoon, SK S7K 2H6Phone (306) 933-7442

Prince AlbertP.O. Box 3003800 Central AvePrince Albert, SK S6V 6G1Phone (306) 953-3537


46

Useful Publications and Websites

Caring for the Green Zone: Riparian Areas andGrazing Management. B. Adams and L Fitch. 2003.Cows and Fish Program. Lethbridge, Alberta. 46 pages.

Livestock and Water. North Dakota State University.1999. www.ag.ndsu.edu.

Managing Saskatchewan Wetlands: A Landowner’sGuide. Denis Huel. 2000. Saskatchewan WatershedAuthority.

Managing Saskatchewan Rangelands. Revised Edition.W. Pyle and W. Johnson Eds. 1990. SaskatchewanAgriculture Development Fund. New Pasture andGrazing Technologies Project.

Natural Values- The Importance of Wetlands andUpland Conservation Practices in WatershedManagement: Functions and Values for Water Qualityand Quantity. T. S. Gabor, A. North, L. Ross, HMurkin,J. Anderson, M. Raven. 2004. Ducks UnlimitedCanada. 55 Pages.

Quality Farm Dugouts. 2002. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Alberta Agriculture, Province of Manitoba,Saskatchewan Research Council, Saskatchewan WaterCorporation. 124 Pages.www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/eng4696

Pasture Water Systems for Livestock. 2003. AlbertaAgriculture and Food. Edmonton Alberta.www.agric.gov.ab.ca

Range Plan Development. A Practical Guide toPlanning for Management and Improvement ofSaskatchewan Rangelands. Z.M. Abougendia. 1990.Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund. NewPasture and Grazing Technologies Project.

Riparian Health Assessment for Lakes, Sloughs andWetlands – Field Workbook. N. Ambrose, G. Ehlert,and K. Spicer-Rawe. 2004. Modified from Fitch, L., B.Adams, and G.Hale 2001. Riparian Health Assessmentfor Streams and Small Rivers – Field Workbook. Cowsand Fish Program. Lethbridge, Alberta. 90 Pages.

Riparian Health Assessment for Streams and SmallRivers – Field Workbook. L. Fitch, B. Adams, AndG.Hale. 2001. Cows and Fish Program. Lethbridge,Alberta. 90 Pages.

Rural Water Quality Information Tool. 2007. AlbertaAgriculture and Food and Agriculture and Agri-foodCanada.www.agric.gov.ab.ca/app84/rwqit

Streambank Stewardship: Your Guide to Caring ForRiparian Areas of Saskatchewan. Denis Huel. 1998.Saskatchewan Watershed Authority.

The Stockman’s Guide to Range Livestock WateringSources. Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute.1997. Canada-Manitoba Agreement on AgriculturalSustainability (CMAAS), Saskatchewan Agriculture andFood.

Water for Dairy Cattle. Looper, M.L. and D.N.Waldner. 2002. New Mexico State University,Cooperative Extension Service.www.cahe.nmsu.edu

Water Quality and Cattle. Braul, L. and B. Kirychuk.2001. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

Water Wells that Last Generations. 2000. AlbertaAgriculture and Agri-Food Canada., and Agriculture,Alberta Environment.www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/wwg404

Notes

LIVESTOCK WATERING SYSTEMS IN SASKATCHEWAN · Project Partners Funding for this publication was provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Greencover Canada Program. Livestock

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