Water is an essential part of a grazing plan, and the more accessible water is to livestock the better. The distance to water is an important consideration when designing a rotational grazing system. During hot weather, cattle congregate nearer the water source, resulting in less use of pasture farther from the water source. Research has shown that the maximum distance cattle will travel to water and not decrease grazing uniformity is 800 feet. As travel distance increases above this amount, pasture use decreases. Ponds, wells, creeks, springs, or public water sources can be used to supply water to livestock. Regardless of the source, it must be capable of supplying enough clean water throughout the entire grazing period to meet livestock needs.

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