Godwin and Miner installed off-stream watering developments to lure livestock away from streams and riparian zones, and analyzed whether those developments were a more cost effective method to reduce stream pollution compared to fencing. Results confirmed that off-stream watering will decrease the time livestock spend at a stream. Difference in time spent at streams between fenced and unfenced areas with water developments were minimal. Assuming that the distribution of manure is correlated with the amount of time an animal spends in an area, off-stream watering developments can reduce water quality impacts. This study also illustrated that pasture pumps can be used in the off-stream watering area instead of a water trough to provide similar environmental benefits. In addition, pasture pumps seem to provide adequate water to maintain animal health.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.