The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Utilizing Snow as a Water Source for Wintering Cattle

Careful management of snow fed cows is essential in cattle management in Montana. Consider the following points from Manitoba Agriculture. The complete article is located at bit.ly/3mmm88F.

• Snow as the only water source is not recommended for lactating cows, those in poor body condition, cows on less than optimum feeding programs, or for those who are sick or unhealthy.

• An alternate water source must be in place and immediately available in case snow conditions change and cows cannot maintain sufficient snow intake.

• Snow must be clean and easily accessible. The University of Alberta study (1980) showed cattle preferred clean snow that they could easily pick up using a circular scooping motion of the tongue, a similar motion to that used when grazing.

• Ice-crusted, wind-blown or trampled snow sources are not considered adequate. It may be necessary to break through ice-covered snow with a tractor or some other means to allow cows access. Providing traction (straw, old hay, sand) on icy surfaces is recommended to prevent injuries.

• Carefully evaluate the snowfall in your area. It takes about 10 centimeters of snow to get one centimeter of water. Not all areas are well suited to this management practice. Consider the amount of snowfall and openness of fields – wide-open spaces with little or no wind protection will result in wind-blown snow which is not easily accessible to cows.

• Use feed intake to assess whether cattle are receiving enough water from snow. Feed intake for a mature cow

should be between two and 2.5 per cent of body weight and should be consistent from day to day. A drop in feed consumption could indicate insufficient water intake.

• Cows in pens or confined to small fields may not have a sufficient supply of snow to act as a water source.

• Ensure cows receive a well-balanced ration that provides all the energy, protein, minerals and vitamins they require. Cows fed poorly digestible rations will be prone to rumen compaction regardless of water source.

Montana State University U.S. Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.