Portable, Seasonal Tanks
Using portable watering tanks for seasonal grazing is an excellent way to improve the flexibility of grazing systems. Portable tanks also are an inexpensive way to get water to all of the paddocks during the growing season. Portable tanks can be made at home from plastic barrels or purchased at local farm supply stores. Plastic and fiberglass tanks are reasonably priced, and come in a variety of sizes. Plastic and fiberglass tanks have several advantages over steel tanks; they last longer, they are less expensive, and they are easier to move around because they are lighter. Size and quality should be the most important considerations in selecting portable tanks. Tank sizes vary from 55 to 1,000 gallons. However, smaller portable tanks are easier to move. And since portable tanks usually are placed in smaller paddocks where the entire herd won’t be watering at the same time, large tanks usually are not necessary. Portable tanks can greatly improve the flexibility of grazing systems. They can be placed under fences to supply two to four separate paddocks with water. Tanks also can be located close to areas being grazed to create shorter distances for livestock to travel to water.
Portable tanks can greatly improve the flexibility of grazing systems. Size and quality should be the most important considerations in selecting portable tanks.
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Livestock quickly learn that the old herd mentality is not necessary with these tanks; one or two head at a time will go to water, making it possible for smaller tanks with full-flow water valves to remain nearly full at all times. Also, if smaller tanks are used, one tank can be moved easily to other paddocks. That reduces costs because one tank can supply water to several paddocks. Water valves are available in a variety of sizes and with a variety of flow rates. The flow rates of valves needed with portable tanks will, in large part, depend upon tank sizes and herd numbers. Use “full flow� float valves with smaller, portable tanks to allow rapid refill of the tanks. Avoid the smaller float valves that clamp on the sides of tanks Examples of full flow because they do not refill tanks float valves rapidly enough, often resulting in livestock damaging empty tanks. Protect valves from cattle by placing the valves beneath fences. Portable, seasonal tanks can be hooked to plastic pipe rolled hundreds of feet above ground or hooked to hydrants with short feeder hoses. Having those watering points in all paddocks improves grazing efficiency in the systems.
Watering Systems for Serious Graziers