Stock Journal Feature, November 2022

Technologies are available to monitor water remotely and provide real time data on usage, flows and levels.   Importantly, these technologies provide peace of mind that water issues are identified early and the risk of livestock going without water is reduced. The technologies may also reduce labour and travel costs associated with checking tanks, troughs and pumps. Water monitoring and telemetry technologies do not entirely eliminate the need to check on water tanks and troughs, but they reduce the frequency of checking water infrastructure. 

A range of devices are available depending on your needs, location and water source; they include leak detection devices, tank monitoring, trough sensors and cameras. 

Leak detection devices

Where water is supplied from mains water, the costs of water are ever increasing and pose a significant contribution to farm operating costs. This has led to producers being more conscious of their water use and undertaking regular monitoring of water usage through devices such as leak detection systems to monitor daily water flows and usage. 

Leak detection systems are fitted to mains meters and monitor total and minimum water use. Regular reports via text messaging, email or on the internet provide producers with up-to-date information on water usage. High water flows overnight, and early morning typically indicates a leak in the system. This frequent monitoring enables producers to quickly detect when a leak occurs, potentially avoiding excessive water bills.

Tank monitoring

A range of different types of units are available to monitor tanks remotely. The units use a range of sensors to detect information about water levels and can also include alerts if levels are excessively low or high. Information is sent via mobile, satellite, UHF or LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network).

Trough sensors

A number of different units are available to monitor water at the trough. Information provided includes average and minimum water levels and may also provide valuable insights into livestock drinking habits. Trough sensors communicate data via mobile or satellite network.

Cameras

Cameras can provide real time video, scheduled or on demand photos of your farm infrastructure at water troughs, dams and tank monitors. In addition to showing water levels the images may show if the trough or dam has any contamination which may affect stock.   The information provided by images may be invaluable, particularly if these locations are remote. Communication is usually via Wi Fi system, mobile or satellite network. 

Other technologies are also available which measure flow, pressure and the function of control pumps. 

Return on Investment

Research undertaken at Best Practice Demonstration Farm at Struan and Kybybolite found that estimated Return on Investment over three years varied from 334%- 1081% of installation and on-going costs recovered, a significant return on investment.  

Further information: https://www.pir.sa.gov.au/research/agtech/attend_demos/struan_kybybolite_demo_farms