Beginning Farmer & Land Access
Farm Water Access Checklist
A checklist for confirming water access on a farm property. It helps buyers and renters verify sources, rights, and delivery before relying on them before committing to a farm.
ChecklistBeginning Farmer & Land AccessFree PDF
What is on this checklist
- Water source type
- Well or pond location
- Water rights documentation
- Pump and pipe condition
- Water quality test record
- Livestock watering points
- Irrigation access
- Seasonal supply notes
- State water agency contact
How to use this checklist
Use one sheet per unit, pen or field. Date it, sign it, and file the finished copy so you can look back at what was found and fixed.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with USDA NRCS and USDA.
For more in this area, see the farm loans, grants and taxes. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Dairy Farm Water Use Report Finds Cows Drinking With Suspicious Enthusiasm, and agribusiness farm stories.