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South Dakota State University Extension is encouraging producers to take advantage of its free, on-site livestock water testing services across the state.
Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, said water samples tested this spring have been across the board in quality, with several samples showing salt levels too high for safe livestock consumption.
South Dakota soils tend to be high in salt content, which can raise the salt levels in dugouts, creeks and streams. Salverson said the winter’s limited snowfall and continued drought conditions in much of the state have exacerbated those high salt levels. The state’s continuous high winds evaporate water at a faster-than-normal rate, causing the salt to concentrate even more.
“However, I would like to put caution out there. If an area gets rain and the ponds fill with water, it does not mean the water is suitable for livestock consumption,” Salverson said. “Testing is the only way to know.”
SDSU Extension offers water testing services at all eight regional centers and at select county offices across the state. Samples must be collected in a clean plastic or glass container such as water bottles, pop bottles or jelly jars.
A quick test is conducted free of charge with an electro-conductivity (EC) meter to determine total salts in the water. After the results are reviewed, an SDSU Extension field or state specialist will discuss the results with the producers.
Salverson said poor water quality can hurt livestock’s growth and reproduction, and severely contaminated water can cause illness or death. Even clear water can be of poor quality. She encourages producers to be proactive and test early to protect their livestock’s health.
“Don’t use your animals as an indicator of water quality. Every pound gained can pay big dividends when the animals are sold,” Salverson said.
SDSU Extension
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