Physical Barrier Construction to Reduce Feedlot Waste Runoff and Improve Water Quality.

Physical Barrier Construction to Reduce Feedlot Waste Runoff and Improve Water Quality

The Porter Seed and Cattle Company, located in the Rocky Mountains near Newcastle, Colorado, was homesteaded in the late 1800’s and has been in continuous operation since that time.  Through a special program with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Porter Ranch was given the funding to build a physical barrier around their feedlot that was adjacent to a pond and waterway.  This project was completed with the help of the Oklahoma State University Agronomy Club members.  The barrier consisted of cement bunkers that were designed as the base for a fence that was constructed using two-inch metal pipe.  This served as the frame for guardrails to help to keep the cattle, animal waste, and soil from polluting the waterway.  The primary function of the physical barrier was to limit feedlot runoff and water contamination of the pond, which was used as a livestock water source.  The secondary function of the barrier was to help reduce erosion of the waterway.  Overall, construction of the physical barrier improved the water quality of the ranch.