Establishing risk assessment on water quality for livestock

Abstract

• Monitoring and managing the quality of water for livestock systems is an essential consideration to obtain optimal production, maximize the use of a precious natural resource, and minimize the risk of adverse effects that can limit production. Inorganic constituents in water may be from industry (manufacturing, mining, and agriculture) but are most likely to be of natural origin mainly because of the geology, especially in the case of groundwater. • There is no set formula to determine the risk to livestock of water quality. Many interactive conditions have a bearing on the effects of the constituents on the livestock. These include the physiology of the animal, the type of constituent, the interactions among constituents, and the interactions between livestock and the environment. • The purpose of applying comprehensive guidelines and possible computer models is to minimize the risks of adverse effects on livestock production. A computer software assessment system enables one to include a wider range of data than can be accommodated in a limited set of guidelines, thereby improving the assessment of risk. Monitoring and managing the quality of water for livestock production systems should be applied routinely as part of the logistics management of the livestock enterprise.