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Soil, Water & Conservation

Livestock Water Supply Planning Guide

Guide to planning livestock water supply, from estimating needs by animal group to choosing sources, tanks, pipelines and backups. Work through the steps in order and keep notes on what you find along the way.

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GuideSoil, Water & ConservationFree PDF

The steps on this page

  1. List livestock groups and locations
  2. Identify water sources
  3. Estimate peak need with extension help
  4. Plan tank size and number
  5. Plan pipelines and pumps
  6. Plan for freezing weather
  7. Add a backup source
  8. Protect streams and ponds
  9. Record the final layout

How to use this guide

Read the steps once through before you start, then keep the page nearby while you work. Use the notes lines to add what your own setup needs.

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 eXtension.

For more in this area, see the crop planting calendar. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Lufkin Tractor Supply (Texas), and farming farm stories.

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