PIERRE, S.D.(DRGNews)- South Dakota State University Extension is offering free, on-site livestock water testing services to farmers and ranchers across the state.

Cow/Calf Field Specialist Robin Salverson says many parts of the state have had fairly decent rains so far this year, but that doesn’t mean what’s in sloughs and dugouts is good quality water.

Salverson says while the slough, creek, river, dugout or other water source may look clean and clear, that doesn’t mean it’s good quality water.

Salverson says one indicator that the water is of good quality is if you see lots of deer, antelope or other wildlife tracks around the edges. She says that means  they’re coming to drink the water, whereas ducks just float on the water for a bit, then fly away.

Salverson says the county Extension Offices or Regional Centers use a quick test with an electro-conductivity meter to determine total salts in the water.

After the quick test results are reviewed by an SDSU Extension field or state specialist, Salverson said additional laboratory testing may be suggested. She says any additional testing that’s recommended to be done by private laboratories will be at the cost of the producer.

SDSU Extension offers water testing services at all eight regional centers and at county offices across the state. Samples must be collected in a clean plastic or glass container such as water bottles, pop bottles or jelly jars.

For more information, contact Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, at 605-374-4177 or [email protected].