Myths About Water Quality
A visual observation of livestock water ponds is not an accurate measurement of water quality. Some common misconceptions when determining water quality include the following.
Clear water is good water. Through years of testing, more samples that appear clear tested poorly than samples that appear murky. Why? The quality is so poor nothing else wants to live in it.
If waterfowl are on the pond, this means good water. This observation is not foolproof. Poor quality water has been noted on ponds with waterfowl.
If it is spring fed, it is good. This is also an incorrect statement.
Conducting a Quick Test
The only way to confirm water quality is by completing a “quick test,” either in the field or in a laboratory. The “quick test” is performed with a handheld electro-conductivity (abbreviated as EC) or total dissolved solid (abbreviated as TDS) meter. SDSU Extension provides this service throughout South Dakota; however, producers can purchase their own meter. It can ride along in the pick-up, side-by-side, or saddle bag to test water sources prior to pasture turn-out.
Source: sdstate.edu
Photo Credit: pexels-ron-lach
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock