Watering Livestock in Freezing Temperatures and Power Outages

Ensuring livestock have access to water during freezing temperatures is vital to maintain their health and productivity. Cold weather presents challenges such as frozen water sources, leading to dehydration and reduced feed intake. Implementing these strategies can help farmers ensure consistent water access for their livestock throughout the winter season.

1.   Utilize Heated Water Troughs or Buckets

Heated waterers prevent ice formation, ensuring animals have access to liquid water. Regularly inspect heaters to confirm proper functioning, and follow manufacturer guidelines for safe and efficient operation.

2.   Insulate Water Sources

Insulate water tanks and pipes to reduce freezing risks. Bury water lines below the frost line, and use insulated covers or wraps. Positioning tanks in sheltered areas out of the wind also helps maintain temperature.

3.   Sunlight

Move water troughs or tanks to a sunny location. Black plastic or metal tanks will be warmed by the sun and may reduce ice development in daytime hours.

4.   Use Floats to Cause Water Movement

Moving water does not freeze as quickly.  Floating objects such as a basketball or soccer ball can be moved around by animals, slowing the formation of an ice layer.

5.   Implement Freeze-Proof Watering Systems

Consider installing frost-free or freeze-proof watering systems, which use ground heat to prevent freezing. These systems provide a reliable, long-term solution in cold climates.

6.   Monitor Water Intake

Regularly observe livestock to ensure they drink adequate amounts. Even though water consumption may decrease in cold weather, proper hydration remains critical. Signs of dehydration include decreased feed intake and lethargy.

7.   Ensure Safe Electrical Installations

When using electric heaters, ensure all electrical systems are correctly installed and maintained. Check regularly for stray voltage that can deter animals from drinking.

Additional Tips for Extended Power Outages and/or Emergency Situations

Winter storms can cause prolonged power outages, creating additional challenges for providing water to livestock, especially if a farm depends on well water and an electric pump.  These steps can help farmers maintain hydration for their animals:

1. Manually Break Ice on Water Sources: During power outages, be prepared to regularly break ice on water troughs using hand tools. This may need done several times each day in extremely cold weather.  Smaller containers can be refilled with warm water to slow refreezing. Consider safe use of a chainsaw or ice auger to help in larger water tanks or ponds.
2. Use Portable Generators or Propane-Powered Heaters: Portable generators can power tank heaters and well pumps. Propane powered heaters provide an alternative that does not depend on the electrical grid.
3. Store Water in Advance: Before an anticipated storm, store large quantities of water in insulated tanks or containers, especially if a generator is not available. Pre-filled troughs or portable water tanks can supply livestock during power outages.  Insulate water storage tanks to slow freezing.
4. Hauling Water to Livestock: Water can be hauled in clean tanks.  Water sources could include pumping from ponds or streams using a gas or diesel-powered pump. Municipal or rural water suppliers may offer self-service “water stations” to fill transport tanks.  Farm service businesses such as fertilizer applicators may have a high-volume water source.  In very cold temperatures the transport tank should be emptied each day or stored in a heated facility overnight. Inverters can be purchased at many hardware stores that can run a simple transfer pump to avoid heavy lifting.
5. Pumping from Open Water Source: A submerged pump in the open water can work to hose the water into a permanent tank or temporary tank.

6. Rotate Watering Times: If water availability is limited, rotate access times for groups of animals to ensure each has a chance to drink.
7. Propane Bubblers for Larger Stock Tanks: This combination of 20-pound LP supply tank, pressure regulator and tubing is anchored to the bottom of the stock tank and releases a slow stream of bubbles. The bubbles, which are not harmful to livestock, carry warmer water from the bottom of the tank up to the surface where they maintain a small open hole in the ice during moderate weather.
8. Use Clean Snow as a Temporary Water Source: While not ideal, loose, clean snow can serve as an emergency water source. However, snow alone may not meet hydration needs and could negatively impact feed intake and overall health.

By adopting these strategies, livestock producers can safeguard animal health, maintain hydration, and reduce the risks associated with cold weather and power outages. Consistent access to water supports feed intake, productivity, and the overall well-being of livestock during the harshest winter conditions.