Alternative Bore-Water Supply

Description

Having a back up supply from a bore is very handy. Bore water can be used to supply yard wash water directly or shandied in with re-used yard wash water destined for disposal.

In many areas the water temperature is frequently constant throughout the year (about 16 - 18C) so can use bore water to supply the pre-cooler too.

Set-up costs are high - bore (about $5,000), submergible bore pump ($2-5,000), tank ($3,500), electrical and piping ($1000). Licensing from the water authority is generally required to construct a bore and then use water from a bore for dairy wash down.

Tips on Getting the Best Result

Fill header tank on off-peak power / wind mill.

Pros and Cons

Permanent fix and could use this for other purposes if water quality is OK.

Corrosion of pumps, cost, access to ground water, quality of water to spread on pasture, stains yards etc.

Issues in Making it Happen

Milk Quality

Nil - unless used to wash plant too.

Environment

Nil - may help reduce salinity of effluent discharge.