Dairy Green

Stockwater system design

As with all mammals, fresh and clean drinking water is essential for their health & wellbeing. An accessible reticulated water supply promotes growth, fertility, and resilience for your stock while allowing better pasture management.

A stock water scheme is unique as farm topography, size, and stocking rates vary. Water system flow may be solely reliant on gravity, pumping or a combination of both.

A stock water scheme design is derived from compiling information on heights, distance and flows, both available & required. After analysis, a plan is proposed that will both satisfy demand and stay within design parameters. This plan will determine, where required:

· pipe - layout, types, pressure ratings, diameter & lengths

· pump specifications

· tanks and trough locations

· break pressure tank locations

· pressure reducing valve locations and settings

The initial visit will need sufficient time allocated to observe and take GPS points of water sources, power source, high points, low points, furthest trough locations from the source and discussion as necessary.

Considerations prior to a farm visit from a water system designer

· Identify good water sources e.g., creeks or rivers that flow all year round, springs or bores.

· Have a farm map showing current and any proposed fencing.

· Preferred trough locations. These can be marked on your farm map. Consider break feeding, paddock sizes and your specific farming practices & preferences.

· Stocking rates, current, future and stock types.

To initiate an enquiry contact us on 03 215 4381.

Dairy Green – designing water schemes in Southland & Otago since 2002.