Last year's drought dried up many ponds and creeks. If you rely on them for cattle water during summer, alternatives might be needed this year. As you evaluate your water supply situation, consider identifying ways to put all water into tanks rather than allow cattle to wade into it.

Tank water can be healthier for cattle, and they prefer it to ponds or creeks. It often is cooler and offers easier access. Plus, when cows walk into ponds and creeks, they stir mud and sediments into the water and often deposit urine and manure. No wonder calves consistently choose tank water over ponds when given a choice!

Investing in tanks probably will actually pay for itself. Reports from Montana and Oregon and Canada and elsewhere show that the higher water quality found in tanks provides a boost in cattle gains. Calves often weigh an extra 50 pounds at weaning when tank water is available instead of ponds; and yearling steers can gain an extra three to four tenths of a pound per day. With this much added performance, water tanks, pipes, and pumps can be paid off in just a few years.

In addition, pumping water into tanks usually improves grazing distribution by attracting cattle to graze areas near the tanks instead of spending time in the ponds or creek. This can increase your pasture's carrying capacity or grazing season.

Think of it ? better grazing, higher gains, and reliable water. So much to gain and so little to lose.