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  Discussion on Research on waterers
Author Message
Member:
Hwood

Posted on Monday, Sep 15, 2003 - 10:58 pm:

Dear HA members,

You folks always seem to come through for me whenever I have a need for information . . .

I am looking for anecdotes, opinions, recommendations and reviews of different kinds of outdoor waterers . . . both self-designed and manufactured. I am looking for safety issues, ease of filling/cleaning, acceptance by the horses, durability, cost-effectiveness, location, etc.

For example, in Vermont, my old stomping grounds, enameled iron bath tubs are often seen recycled in pastures as livestock waterers . . . What kinds of things have you folks used to water your horses . . . and what have you found works best or not at all? Have you used anything that created problems for you or your horses? I assume there may be some things that work better in some parts of the country than in others.

Thanks for your help.
Holly
Member:
Tagloili

Posted on Monday, Sep 15, 2003 - 11:14 pm:

I use the Rubbermaid they are easy to clean and what I like best is that tank heaters are available which go into the tank drain hole.

I ran across this article on AQHA site, got some of the crystals, and they do work:

QUESTION: Is algae in a rubber or plastic water tub harmful to horses?

ANSWER: There are many forms of algae that are not poisonous to animals. However, some algae produce toxins that can affect the nervous system and liver of animals that drink water containing the algae. The algae that are toxic are referred to as blue/green algae (Microcystis species), as they often grow in sufficient quantity to produce a green scum or "bloom" on the water. The wind will often blow the algae to an area where the concentration of the algae can be very dangerous to any animal drinking the water. Late summer tends to be the worst time for algae problems.

The algae growing in your rubber water tank is unlikely to be a problem unless the water is stagnant and has a lot of algae present. In such cases, it is best to dump the water and treat the tank with a bleach solution to kill the algae. Rinse the tank well before refilling it with clean water. Changing the water frequently will help prevent the algae growth and is probably your best solution. There are algaecides that can be added to water, but they can change the taste of the water, which may deter the horses from drinking. Copper sulfate is an algaecide that is toxic and should not be used in water tanks for horses. Calcium hypochlorite crystals (1/2 teaspoon per 50 gallons) have been used successfully to control algae in water tanks and they are of very low toxicity to animals.

--Anthony Knight, DVM, Colorado State University

Member:
Lilo

Posted on Tuesday, Sep 16, 2003 - 1:40 pm:

Good questions - good information. I would like to hear some responses to Holly's question also.

Am currently using the Rubbermaid Tanks - but, am having troubles with my stand pipe (hydrant?). I am now considering a Nelson waterer - some folks in my neighborhood have them and like them. I would like a consumption meter (need to know my horses are drinking). Any information out there? I live in Colorado - the winters are usually not terribly severe, but I would consider a heater.
I know they are expensive - but so is replacing the stand-pipe.
Lilo
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