How to Stop Algae Growth in Livestock Water Troughs

Watering troughs are a very important aspect to keeping livestock. For horses, cows, goats, pigs, sheep and any other live animal out in a pasture situation, it's absolutely vital that there be a readily available supply of fresh water. The biggest problem with water troughs out in the open is keeping them clean--particularly keeping them free of algae. Stop algae growth in a trough by following a couple of guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Brush
  • Unscented bleach
  • Copper sulfate crystals
  • Warm water
  • Measuring spoons
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the trough thoroughly using hot water and a scrubbing brush. Eliminating the algae culture will restrict future algae growth and keep water cleaner for your livestock. You will need to perform this step every couple of months.

    • 2

      Treat the water in your watering trough to eliminate and prevent algae. Add 2 to 3 ounces of unscented bleach per 50 gallons of water in the trough, or dissolve copper sulfate crystals in warm water to add to the trough. Dissolve a 1/2 teaspoon of crystals in 1.5 ounces of warm water for a 350-gallon trough.

    • 3

      Repeat the applications and cleanings. Bleach should be reapplied once a week, while copper sulfate should be reapplied every two to four weeks. Keep up the applications until the algae growth has stopped.