Water Suitability and Agricultural Productivity

The suitability of a water source depends on its water quality characteristics and the intended water use. Water quality is defined by physical, chemical and biological characteristics. Water uses may vary from wash water and livestock drinking water to water used in food processing or as a food ingredient. Most agricultural production requires good quality water. Good quality water is essential in the production of safe food.

Agricultural producers are realizing that improved water quality can increase productivity and reduce costs of maintenance of water distribution systems. Results of applied research have found that there is a benefit from using the quality of water suited to the agricultural use. For example, it has been shown that cattle drinking water of poor quality gain less weight or may have poor health. An adequate supply of good quality water is crucial to agricultural production.

Publications:

• Water Quality Requirements for Saskatchewan's Agri-Food Industry : Executive Summary - This document summarizes varying water quality needs for agricultural production (livestock drinking water, irrigation, horticulture, farm chemical blending, food and non-food processing and domestic household use).
• Domestic Water Quality - This fact sheet helps you to better understand drinking water guidelines and water quality problems in Saskatchewan.
• Water Quality Testing - The purpose of this publication is to provide water quality testing information that will assist rural residents who use a private water supply.
• Canadian Water Quality Guidelines - The development of Canadian Water Quality Guidelines began in 1984 and is managed by Environment Canada. These guidelines have been subdivided into four categories focusing on the protection of aquatic life, the protection of agricultural water uses, Canadian Drinking Water Quality and Recreational water use.
• Water Quality and Cattle - Water is the most important nutrient to cattle and can have many health and production effects. This publication talks about various water quality parameters, which may have an impact on cattle health.
• Effects of Water Quality on Cattle Weight Gain - Research indicates that cattle, when provided with high quality water, will drink more, eat more and ultimately gain weight more quickly. Research also shows that improved water quality can lead to a decrease in disease and other health problems in animals
• Winter Watering for Livestock - This publication provides information about the impacts of direct access livestock watering on water quality. It also recommends some Beneficial Management Practices to improve water quality and winter watering
• Solar-Powered Water Pumping Systems for Livestock Watering - Solar-powered water pumping systems are one way providing improved water quality to livestock.  These systems can also help producers manage their rangelands and protect their water supplies.
• Rural Water Quality Information Tool - This on-line tool (jointly developed between Alberta Agriculture and Food and PFRA) assesses the quality and suitability of raw water sources for privately owned and operated water supplies.