A New Option for Dealing with Elevated Sulphate Levels
By Natasha Wilkie, PAg, Livestock and Feed Extension Specialist, Weyburn
Many Saskatchewan livestock producers deal with elevated sulphate levels in their water. Sulphates affect a large number of water sources in the province and can have a detrimental impact on herd health if not managed properly. Over the years, the Ministry of Agriculture’s livestock and feed extension specialists have worked with numerous livestock producers who have had to limit use or have been unable to use their water sources due to high sulphate levels. As with many issues producers face, they are also very creative at developing solutions to alleviate some of those concerns.
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership has new funding available to producers whose sulphate levels are affecting their herds: The Sulphate Water Mitigation Beneficial Management Practice (BMP) through the Resilient Agricultural Landscapes Program (RALP). This BMP was designed to assist producers dealing with high sulphate levels in both surface and groundwater sources. Elevated sulphate levels have been shown to negatively affect reproduction, decrease weight gains and, worst-case scenario, cause the death of an animal. This negatively affects producers, livestock and the environment as more resources are used to make pounds of beef. By adding another tool to the toolbox to help combat these issues, improved animal welfare and a lower environmental footprint can be achieved.
Producers who access the BMP are eligible to receive 50 per cent of the costs for water treatment technology and 75 per cent of the eligible costs for a discharge water evaporation or holding pond, if required. Payments would be up to a combined maximum of $20,000. It is important to note that this a pre-approval program so you will need to work with your local livestock and feed extension specialist before undertaking any activities.
If elevated sulphate levels are an issue for your operation, please call your local regional office to discuss your project as well as other options for mitigating the effects on your herd. You can also call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 to connect with a specialist in your area.
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