You could be pouring money down the drain

Nov 20 2007 by Richard Davies, Western Mail

UNLIKE some parts of the UK Wales doesn’t usually have a problem with a shortage of water. However all dairy farmers could save money and help the environment by being aware of how much water they use – and its cost.

With water company charges set to run, on average, 4.2% above inflation between 2005 and 2010 and changing weather patterns affecting rainfall, more pressure is being put on water supply. It could be you are not just pouring water, but money, down the drain.

Climate change and rising water costs are adding to economic pressures on dairy farms and therefore monitoring the use of this vital natural resource becomes more important.

Mains water supply costs the average dairy farm £31/cow/year, but on some units this can be over £100/cow/year.

When you stop and think of how water use is inextricably linked with every aspect of production on a dairy farm it can be quite surprising – livestock drinking, plate cooler water use, washing down yards, parlours, tanks and plant, general water use, sprayers, slurry flushing systems, irrigation, domestic use – the list goes on.

Some 50% to 75% of water used on dairy farms is by livestock for drinking, and while this amount cannot be reduced, alternative sources to mains water can be considered.

Alternative supply options include boreholes, springs, canals, rivers and lakes. While the initial search for water can be quite expensive you can get a very quick return on your investment.

If abstraction is not possible then rainwater harvesting may be an option.

Collecting rainwater from roofs and other clean areas can make a significant contribution to water supply, with areas of high rainfall – such as Wales – and larger catchment areas having even greater potential.

Capital costs can be modest and average volumes predictable, but if the water is to be used for purposes other than yard washing then filtration and treatment is recommended.

It is not always easy to judge the amount of water being used on farm, but to help work out how much you are using – or wasting – a free water audit pack is available from the MDC either from the website www.mdc.org.uk or by post by phoning 01285 646510.

Richard Davies is extension officer for Wales for the MDC. Contact him on 01824 790214; 07966 237841 or by email richard.davies@mdc.org.uk