a cross fence runs across the middle of the waterer so that stock has access from either paddock.

waterer sets on a pad of concrete surrounded by gravel to keep watering area dry. The tire is buried about half way into the gravel and cement to whatever height seems appropriate for the animals you are watering.

bottom is filled with concrete

inlet and overflow pipes in middle. A telephone pole in this setup keeps cows from pushing through the cattle panels

a float valve regulates water level on this waterer which is fed from a pressurized deep well system

discussing the merits of the tire waterer at Grazing School farm tour.

A second waterer at this same farm was fed from a "seep" which was dug out, then back filled with gravel. A perforated pipe ran from the gravel to a tire waterer in the middle of the field and the overflow pipe carried the excess water via more PVC pipe to a gravel filled trench to the creek below. This particular system supplied a constant supply of water to the tire reservoir and beyond at a slow steady trickle so that the farmer never had to worry about his stock having water and it never froze. The farmer also had the added benefit of regaining the ground around the seep which before had always been a muddy bog.

The black tire also helps to keep the water warm in the winter.

What a great idea eh? Tires used are not tractor tires, but heavy equipment tires with stiff straight walls. No steel belts. On a smaller scale (ie for sheep) you might use bobcat tires or fork lift tires.

This system is one of the many water systems that the Soil & Water District /USDA will help you install on a cost share of 80/20 (they pay the 80%). Talk to your local USDA office for more details.