Water Quality & Delivery Systems Category Guide
Part of Water, Environment, and Climate
What Are Water Quality & Delivery Systems?
Water quality and delivery systems encompass everything related to providing clean, adequate water to dairy cattle—including testing services, treatment equipment (filtration, softening, chlorination), waterers, tanks, and plumbing infrastructure. Water is often called the "forgotten nutrient" because its importance is overlooked despite being consumed in larger quantities than any feed ingredient.
Why Water Matters
Dairy cows drink 30-50+ gallons per day, and water intake directly limits feed intake and milk production. Water quality problems—high bacteria, excess minerals, or contaminants—can reduce production, cause health issues, or discourage drinking when cows need it most.
Key Benefits of Good Water
- Higher intake: Clean, palatable water encourages consumption
- Better production: Water intake directly affects milk yield
- Improved health: Quality water reduces pathogen exposure
- Equipment protection: Treatment reduces mineral buildup in lines and equipment
Water Quality Concerns
Microbial Contamination
Bacteria, including coliforms and pathogens, can contaminate wells and surface sources. Regular testing and chlorination may be needed.
Mineral Content
High sulfates, iron, manganese, or total dissolved solids can reduce palatability, interfere with nutrient absorption, or cause health issues. Some minerals antagonize others (e.g., sulfur and copper).
Nitrates
Elevated nitrates, often from fertilizer contamination, can cause health problems, especially in pregnant cattle.
pH and Hardness
Extreme pH or very hard water can affect palatability and equipment performance.
Treatment Options
Chlorination
Kills bacteria and controls biological growth in water systems. Simple and economical for microbial issues.
Filtration
Removes sediment, iron, and some contaminants. Type depends on specific problems.
Softening
Reduces hardness minerals. Important for protecting equipment and some water quality issues.
Reverse Osmosis
Removes most dissolved contaminants but is expensive and produces waste water.
Delivery Systems
- Waterers: Troughs, cups, or bowls sized for adequate access and flow
- Heating: Prevents freezing in winter climates
- Placement: Near feeding areas and pen exits for maximum access
- Cleaning: Regular scrubbing prevents biofilm and algae
Do You Need Water Treatment?
Consider water testing and treatment if:
- Water source is a well or surface water that hasn't been tested
- Cattle avoid drinking or show reduced intake
- Mineral deposits accumulate in lines and equipment
- Water has visible issues (color, odor, sediment)
- Health or production problems may be water-related
Cost Considerations
Comprehensive water testing costs $50-200. Chlorination systems are $200-1,000+. Softeners and filtration vary widely based on flow requirements and contaminants. The ROI from improved intake and reduced health problems often justifies treatment costs quickly.