Water systems calculator helps producers tap into savings

Good-quality water is one of the most critical – and often overlooked – factors in beef herd productivity. Research shows insufficient access can reduce performance faster and more dramatically than any other nutrient deficiency.

A newly updated Economics of Water Systems Calculator from the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) is designed to help producers evaluate the costs and benefits of different livestock watering systems. The tool now includes:

• Above-ground pipeline option – a lower-cost alternative to buried pipelines in some operations.
• Funding opportunities – examples of provincial programs that can offset investment costs.
• Cow-calf and yearling interface – customized for different classes of cattle.
• Multiple system types – windmill, solar, underground pipeline, and aeration treatments.

For one example, the updated calculator allows producers to compare the costs and potential economic benefits of different pumped water systems versus direct access. By entering herd size information, along with other key details such as sale price assumptions and system costs, producers can see estimated payback periods and weight gain benefits tailored to their operation.

BCRC notes that in addition to direct productivity gains, improved water systems have been shown to have a substantial positive impact to support animal health, reduce bacterial exposure, and protect riparian areas especially during dry years

Further details are available in the full report from Beef Cattle Research Council.