Influence of Watering Frequency on Forage Consumption and Steer Performance in Southeastern Kenya

Abstract

Forty-five zebu steers (rvg wt 311 kg) were allotted to 3 watering frequency treatments with 15steers/treatment. The treatments involved watering once every day (l/l), watering once every 2 days (l/2) and watering once every 3 days (l/3) to investigate the effect of watering frequency on forage consumption and steer perfor-mance. Three steers/treatment were used to quantify fecal output and estimated forage consumption. All steers were grazed together in a lOO-ha paddock for 10 hours daily and confiied in a corral overnight. Steers were allowed ad libitum access to water only in the evenings according to the watering schedule. The study was conducted over 6 months, during which time total fecal collections were made in March, April, June, and July. All steers were weighed approximately every 2 weeks. Forage consumption was reduced (X0.01) for steers watering (l/2) and (l/3), compared with the (l/l) watered group. Forage intake was highest (X0.01) in April when herbage was green and growing. Steer performance followed a seasonal pattern reflecting changes in forage quality. Watering frequency did not influence steer performance. Reducing watering frequency from daily to once every 2 or 3 days may enhance utilization of available range and save on cost of providing water for cattle under certain pastoral conditions.