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Feed water testing urged by agrologist

Too much nitrates in feed causes a chemical reaction in the blood that robs the animal of life-sustaining oxygen
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(Shutterstock)

Testing water and feed will assist health of a cattle herd, says agriculture livestock and feed specialist Catherine Lang.

Unacceptable levels of certain minerals – sulphur and nitrates – can reduce overall weight, average daily weight gain and health.

Producers should test both water and feed for mineral levels to ensure the best outcome for cattle, she told a celebrating rural ranching women conference.

Excessive sulphur intake in water leads to reduced dry matter intake, in effect starving the animal.

Too much nitrates in feed causes a chemical reaction in the blood that robs the animal of life-sustaining oxygen.

Water tests are done at regional Saskatchewan Agriculture offices with results almost instant.

Feed tests need to be sent away and take a week or so to get results.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net.

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