56 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN March 2024 PRODUCTION DON’T GO WITH THE FLOW ON WATER QUALITY Proactive Planning to Protect Herd Health and Productivity CALLIE CURLEY | CONTRIBUTING WRITER As another calendar page turns and summer creeps closer, the mental to-do list can seem impossibly long. When it comes to one of the most essential aspects of your herd’s success, however, a few small actions in springtime can save time, energy and money come summer – especially during a drought. The single-most important nutrient in the animal body – water – is essential for all metabolic processes, chemical reactions, temperature regulation, waste elimination and, ultimately, overall health and survival. Water’s importance cannot be overstated, and yet, it is so often overlooked by cattle producers as a key predictor of herd health. “Water is the No. 1 most important thing for humans and animals,” says University of Nebraska Extension Educator Troy Walz. “Whether it’s hot or cold, we always need our water. Cattle are the same way. The cleaner the water, the better it is – for man and beast.” Just as important as available water is clean and reliable water. Available and Reliable Compared to other parts of the country, Nebraska water is rich and plentiful. Sulfur is one of the only consistent concerns in water quality, primarily on the eastern side of the state. CONTINUED ON PAGE 58
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