How much maintenance do pasture water tanks need?
Water tanks in pastures need to be dumped out a minimum of once a week in the summer time to control mosquitoes and to clean and scrub out algae. In the winter, tanks should be dumped at least once per month. Options for dumping include siphoning, pushing tank over, or use of a drain or ball valve on the bottom of the tank. The later is the most efficient and least labor intensive. If tanks require disinfection, bleach solution is the most cost-effective method (1 part bleach to 4 parts water). The solution should be rinsed out thoroughly with clean water before refilling the pasture tank. While the bleach solution will not harm the horses, the chlorine odor might discourage horses from drinking normally and cause health issues. Options for pasture tanks are plastic, rubber, metal, or fiberglass. There are pros and cons for each. Make sure the one you choose is safe and smooth to prevent injury. Horses will bump and knock the tanks, particularly when in a group, so make sure the tank w
