Locating Water Access Sites

The location of a watering site influences herd behavior and drinking patterns. Animals tend to drink one at a time if the pasture size is 10 acres or less.

If water is further away, animals will travel as a herd to drink. Concentration of livestock loitering around a water source can lead to development of a “sacrifice” area devoid of vegetation and prone to muddy conditions and manure-contaminated runoff unless a protective hardened surface is installed. Mitigate runoff between the sacrifice area and nearby streams with a 100-foot buffer of grassy vegetation.

Boss animals may prevent timid animals from drinking enough water, as the entire herd may move off before there is sufficient time for the last animals to fully drink. At least 10% of the herd should be able to drink at the same time.

Water, feed, minerals, and shade all attract grazing livestock. Locating these attractants throughout the pasture rather than siting them adjacent to each other can minimize the development and size of sacrifice areas.