Drinking water from dugouts or other surface water supplies must be treated prior to consumption. Test your drinking water every year. Water supplies contaminated with manure contain faecal coliform bacteria and may have other disease-causing microorganisms such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia . These microorganisms are a threat to public health, and can reduce weight gains and productivity in livestock. 1 cow can add up to 500,000 faecal bacteria to a stream each day if allowed direct access to the stream.
L is unhealthy for swimming.
Drinking water must have no faecal bacteria. How you can help to protect Alberta's water resources Good water quality is needed for healthy drinking water for people and livestock, a large, diverse fish population, and a healthy, attractive recreational environment. Locate wintering and feeding areas away from water sources. There is a greater risk of livestock waste affecting surface water if cattle are close to streams, rivers and lakes. Provide shelter for cattle away from water sources.