Storm in the swamp

[AlbertaFarmer5]

My cows pick snow with no problems whatsoever. Dad and his dad before would cut holes in the ice, bail water out of the well, or melt snow, and to think all that stupid work was in vain as the cows could’ve ate snow. If cows are walking any kind of distance to water how much energy are they burning and extra feed does it take versus them eating snow where they stand? Yet to see a study which definitively says snow is less adequate than water.

Studies I've seen don't indicate any difference in performance. It makes sense that it takes energy to melt the snow.

Some cows never come up for water all winter, while some will break down the door if the waterer freezes up.

I am feeding them about 1/4 mile walk to the waterer. Cold and slightly breezy today, saw a few come up to the waterer, most weren't actually not even my cows, but a neighbors cows. Saw many of them walk a few feet from the feeders and go eat snow.

When we did swath grazing, they must get enough snow while eating, none came for water.

In the winter, I have to keep the salt box where I feed, otherwise many cows never get any salt/mineral/vitamins since they don't go to the waterer.

Our have gone without water a few winters. I'm certain Grandpa's cow herd had to eat snow all winter. But I think he did have to keep the tank heater going for the animals at the barn.

Of course, some cows will walk a half mile to a stock waterer, then drink out of a mud puddle 10 feet away from it.