Clean, Clear Water - Country Water Supply on the Farm

Water is something that we all take for granted. This is especially so if you're still living in the city where you enjoy a never-ending supply and the water is a consistent quality. Yet another differing factor in country living - water and the quality of that water, is something country living enthusiasts have to consider at all times.

How Much Fresh Water Does A Farm Need?

That's the first question. Let's consider in-house water needs first. The average family of 4 uses 150 gallons per day. That includes drinking, washing bodies, dishes and laundry, and food preparation.

As for the barnyard animals and their needs, one horse drinks 6-10 gallons per day and a milking cow will consume up to 35 gallons per day. Factoring in the animals you plan to keep has significant impact on your need for water on a farm.

Testing Existing Plumbing

If you are considering buying a farm house with a drilled or dug well and plumbing in place, make sure you test all taps in the house and on the property. This includes hydrants by the barn or in the field, as well as garden taps and every tap inside the house.

While testing, you're looking for a consistent steady flow from each. Run a few at a time that are in close proximity to each other and note the change in pressure if any. Keep in mind that almost any system will be adequate during spring runoff and considerably slower in the final hot dry days of summer. Also remember that each area of the United States and Canada differs in their available water supply - you're not looking for any specific measurement, perhaps simply comparing the water capabilities between the many farms you're viewing and considering.

Smelling and tasting the water are good first measures as well. Ask the owner or agent if the water has been tested and, if so, request a copy of the report. If not, you can take a water sample to a lab yourself to have it tested for high levels of minerals (primarily salt), or any presence of bacteria.

Natural Water Sources

If you have rivers/ponds/streams on the property and are considering keeping grazing animals you may also want to have samples of those water sources tested. An ounce of prevention, after all. It is neither difficult nor costly to have this done. You simply need to take a sample from the source and send it off to a lab. Your municipal office will be able to direct you.

You want to ensure that your farm animals aren't consuming run off from any form of pollution upstream or a sewage treatment plant or for that matter a neighbor's faulty septic system -- not the type of water you'll want your animals drinking or children splashing in.

Public Water

The government or a local association may fund water distribution to the area. If the government, check to see if there are limitations to quantity. If an association, ensure that rights to the shares of the co-op are included with your farm land purchase.

Water Rights

While your lawyer is checking for clear title and property easements, you will also discover whether another body (government, corporate or person) owns water rights to your property.

Final Consideration Regarding Water, Wells, Rights and Your Farm

If marshlands or shallow ponds exist on or near the property be fore-warned that these are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects. You may have more than your share of bugs in spring and summer.

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