To build a temporary watering system on his ranch, Greg Judy, Green Pastures Farm, Rucker, Missouri, uses 3/4-inch polyethylene tubing and high-quality hoses to bring the water from the source to the tank in the pasture.
Fiberglass posts hold the tank in place and keep cattle from knocking it over. Sidewalls from earth moving tires surround the tub to keep cattle from muddying up the ground around the tank. He also “armored” the tub with a little bit of electric fence. It keeps the cattle from climbing into the tank and breaking valves, as well as keeps them from stepping on and harming the hoses.
Judy does use better valves and hoses, and even though they aren’t cheap, they are less expensive than $300 to $400 water bills that result if cheaper versions break.
Watch Greg Judy of Green Pastures farm discuss temporary watering systems.