The importance of a water well to livestock and wildlife
Some may see a water well like this one as just a random source of water that a rancher installed for his cattle….something with very little importance in the big picture of life. Let me tell you a water well is SO much more than that. Water is the most essential element to earth! This well was strategically placed for cattle and wildlife to provide them with a safe and reliable source of good quality water. Yes, ranchers also care for the needs of wildlife! Countless deer, coyotes, raccoons, turkeys, other birds, and all other local wildlife use this well to sustain their needs. This well was placed in this very spot to optimize grazing of the pasture. It is in a place where it is easy to access for both the animals and caretakers. It is placed where it takes the least amount of digging to reach the highest quality water available. This well is approximately 60 feet deep, but wells in Eastern Montana may reach anywhere between 50 feet and 80 feet or more.
Ranchers are using the latest technology to provide for their livestock and wildlife in terms of water. Technologies such as solar powered, automatic waterers with float systems, gasoline pump motors, pressure hydrants and more are being used to pump up from the ground a clean water supply. To keep water thawed in our extreme cold, we may use electric heaters, propane heaters, continuous water mover de-icers, and the old fashioned axe to daily chop ice away.
So next time you see a water source placed randomly in a lonely pasture, are out hunting, or eating that delicious steak, remember the importance this one water well serves to provide life sustaining nutrients to wildlife and livestock. Remember how much money, time, energy, and care a rancher puts into keeping that source viable.
Ranchers care about the health of the land, environment, livestock, wildlife, and YOU and water sources are just one small part in how we do this.
John 7:37 ….Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink”
In this new year, we want to work toward educating the public on our lifestyle and agriculture in general. If you have a topic that you would like us to speak about or if you have ANY questions relating to agriculture, PLEASE reach out to us or a local rancher and ASK! We love to share with others about what we do and why we do it. Blessings on your new year!
Written by Tienna Canen
