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Livestock and Exposure to Acid Drainage Water - FAQ

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FAQ - Livestock and Exposure To Acid Drainage Water

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know if the water is acidic?

Often an indicator of acidic water is colour. The water may appear an orange-brown colour. The pH of the water can be tested using the litmus paper test (follow the procedure outlined in the EPA FactSheet). If the test indicates that the water is acidic take all measures to prevent livestock and animals from having contact with the water.

Where can we get test kits to test the pH of the water?

Simple test kits are available at most hardware stores to test the pH of water and soil.

What is the impact of the pH level on animal health if they either access or drink the water?

Water with a pH value of below 6.5 can cause digestive upsets in stock, resulting in the decreased consumption of water, depressed appetite and a loss of production. The acidic water may also damage the membranes in the mouth, and if swallowed may cause diarrhoea. Acidic water may also contain excessive concentrations of minerals which may reduce livestock productivity. Ensure that stock do not have access to acidic water.

What should I do if my livestock or farm animals do come into contact with acidic water?

Remove the animal from the water source as soon as possible, and rinse off with fresh water. Monitor the animal for further symptoms and contact your vet for further advice.

What are the symptoms I should look for and how do I treat it?

Look for signs of burning and blistering. There may me some contact dermatitis and if any water has been swallowed it may cause transient diarrhoea. Wash the animal as soon as possible and call a vet for further advice and treatment options if the symptoms persist.

Will the health of my stock be affected by eating pasture that is immersed in acidic drainage water?

Acidic soil conditions are likely to lead to poor plant growth. These plants may become deficient in some essential elements as well as present toxicities (particularly aluminium and manganese). If livestock have access to only this type of pasture it may cause transient diarrhoea. Monitor the symptoms and call a vet for further advice.

Disclaimer

Use of the information in this Fact Sheet is at your own risk. The Department of Primary Industries and Resources and Biosecurity SA and its employees do not warrant or make any representation regarding the use, or results of the use, of the information contained herein in terms of its suitability, correctness, accuracy, reliability, currency or otherwise. The entire risk of the implementation of the information which has been provided to you is assumed by you. All liability or responsibility to any person using the information is expressly disclaimed by the Department of Primary Industries, Biosecurity SA and its employees.