Diagnostic of the water quality reservoirs used in animal feed in Taquari Valley/RS

Abstract

Good quality water is essential for the development and survival of living beings. In rural areas the main form of supply occurs by own wells and springs. The water intended for human consumption must comply with the drinking standard stipulated by the legislation, and when destined to the animal watering it must meet the quality requirements established by law. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of weir water for animal consumption of dairy farms in the region of Vale do Taquari, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From the total of 104 rural properties, samples were collected from 19 ponds in several municipalities of Vale do Taquari, destined to supply dairy cattle. Water samples were collected and analyzed by physical-chemical and microbiological parameters using the Alfakit® Potability Kit and fast reading equipment. The parameters chloride and iron are in accordance with the values allowed by the legislation and the others, such as dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, color, total dissolved solids and thermotolerant coliforms are in disagreement. It is concluded that almost all water samples analyzed (n=14) do not agree with the values stipulated by the legislation consulted. In this way, there is a need for better management and monitoring of dams, as well as the elaboration and execution of an environmental education program, to train and raise awareness among rural producers.