Water use can increase the overall production cost of swine operations through wastage and increase in manure slurry volume. Using water more efficiently can be beneficial both economically and environmentally. Water wastage was reduced by 60% when a trough with side panel and constant water level was used compared to nipple drinkers. Higher water use was found when using water sprinkling, though sprinkling partially decreased washing time. The conventional power washing nozzle had the lowest cleaning time and water consumption. The conventional and Y-nozzle had the highest reduction of microbial ATPs on plastic and concrete surfaces, respectively. Fully slatted concrete flooring can be high pressure washed without prior water sprinkling.
Developing Strategies for Water Conservation for Producers (full article)
