As summer heats up, water becomes the number-one topic of conversation. The lack or abundance thereof is critical to farms and dairies alike and is particularly important when considering intake in relation to milk production.
Cows need fresh, clean water to produce high volumes of milk. The average Holstein will produce 1 pound of milk for every 4 to 5 pounds of water consumed. Therefore, a cow producing 80 pounds will need around 35-40 gallons of water per day.
Water is quite possibly the most important nutrient in a cow’s diet. How long has it been since you’ve done a water check on your dairy? When’s the last time you walked through the barns and checked for water trough cleanliness or proper valve function?
Here's how to do a two-step water trough check-up:
1. First, ensure that the trough is clean, with no algae buildup around the edges. If buildup has occurred, drain water from the trough and scrub it with a stiff-bristled brush and detergent. Be sure to thoroughly rinse when finished.
2. Next, consider how water is getting to the trough by asking these questions:
- What kind of valve is used?
- Is it functioning properly?
- Does it have any leaks or cracks?
- Am I using a traditional float valve? If so, what is the condition of the rod attached to the ball? Is the ball cracked? Does the valve shut completely when water reaches the adequate level?
A traditional float valve opens naturally with gravity when water levels fall and is attached by a rod to a plastic ball that floats on top of the water. When water levels rise and elevate the float, the valve is shut, and it stops water flow.
Consider using an alternative valve if a traditional valve doesn’t seem to be working for you. One option is a reverse float valve, like the Brown Weight Valve. “This valve never quits,” says designer and manufacturer of Brown Weight Valves, Garry Brown. “I’ve had these on dairies for 12 years, and they’ve never had one quit; they’re designed to last.”
Instead of shutting water off when it reaches the adequate level, this valve opens when water levels drop. Housed inside high-density polyethylene (HDPE), the valve is composed of a stainless-steel spring and rubber plunger, stopping any water from leaking through when the trough is full. The weight is made of HDPE, which will float. A stainless-steel arm connects the weight to the valve. Brown guarantees it to withstand summer and winter months alike without bending.
“The longevity of this valve is unmatched,” said Kevin Kruse, Northwest Dairy Services distributor in Rickreall, Oregon. “It is extremely resilient when compared to other valves. I’ve had customers that have been using the original valve they purchased from me for five years with absolutely no problems at all.”
Another alternative to a traditional float valve would be the Little Giant Trough-O-Matic. It is made of 100% plastic and follows the concept of a traditional float valve, all housed within one cover. This float rests on a rod inside the housing; changing water levels turn the valve on or off. Housed in HDPE and suitable for troughs, tanks and pans, this valve is designed for functionality.
“I’ve never heard any complaints,” said Stephanie Smith, a local supply retailer. “We sell quite a few of them and no one’s replacing them because they buy for the long-term and, usually, they don’t have any problems with them.”
Though not traditionally considered a point of concern when thinking of water intake, cleanliness of a trough and efficiency of the valve in the trough are important to overall milk production. Keep this simple two-step check in mind next time you walk through the barn.
