Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Asanaturalwatersourcedriesup,themineralcontentbecomesconcentrated.Inad-
dition, runoff can increase nitrate levels.
Water that contains high levels of soluble salts such as sodium chloride, calcium chlor-
ide, magnesium chloride, and some of the sulfates can also have deleterious effects.
OTHER IMPURITIES
Other undesirable substances in water for horses are sulfates, nitrates, and toxic substances.
Water with a high sulfate level might indicate contamination by waste or septic intrusion.
It is associated with
E. coli,
which can be toxic to plants, and its bitter taste makes the
plants unpalatable for horses. High concentrations can have a laxative effect.
High nitrate concentrations in water are often caused by agricultural runoff, yet because
it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, you won't detect it. Be sure you are preventing nitro-
gen loss in your pastures and fields by using proper manure management and fertilization
practices.
Nitrate (converted to nitrite) interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood
causing methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome). Pregnant women, children, and anim-
