Quality of Water for Livestock in Man-made Impoundments in the Northern High Plains

Abstract

Twenty-seven water quality parameters were measured in coal surface mine impoundments, bentonite surface mine impoundments, and livestock ponds in the Northern High Plains. Most impoundments were safe for use as a source for livestock drinking water. Eight water quality parameters were different (alpha is lesser than or equal to 0.05) among the types of impoundments. Sulfate concentrations in some coal and bentonite surface mine impoundments were higher than recommended for safe livestock use. Total dissolved solids in bentonite surface mine impoundments may be higher than considered safe. Lead concentrations in some coal surface mine impoundments and livestock ponds exceeded the recommended safe levels for livestock drinking water.