Safety of creek water

[whitneyj09]

Hi there,

So, I just moved my coop into an area close to a creek. The creek runs through an agricultural area and may contain fertilizer or farm chemicals. Here's the thing. I have no house water to a sprinkler system or spigots anywhere near my coop, so I've been filling a 5 gallon bucket in my bathtub and hauling out to the coop. (Ugh.) We have water rights and all that- I'm just wondering how safe it might be to pull out of the creek for the birds- could it be possible they can filter out any water polutapoll and the eggs would be safe to eat? I mean, it's Western Colorado, so the water in Spring Creek is still probably better than Denver City water. I'm just not sure what passes for watering livestock. Thanks for not judging. I'm just sick of hauling buckets and am desperately searching for the simplest solution.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Should be fine. I use rain water in the warmer months, and sometimes melted snow in winter. If you notice a problem than stop.

 

[HuskerHens18]

My creek runs through the center of the cornfield, my ducks drink it all day long and have never gotten sick or had egg problems. It should be fine. My chickens even eat corn out of the field that's been sprayed all has been good.

 

[blackdog043]

I have horizontal nipple waterers with lids that come off, I use gallon jugs, if I don't feel like dragging the hose to the coop.

 

[Fishkeeper]

Get a long hose?
The creek is probably OK though. If you're really worried there are probably test kits you can use to find out what's in it.

 

[Folly's place]

You can get the water tested, and find out what is upstream, especially mine tailings or herbicides or pesticides would be possible concerns.
Also, what are your plans for winter? Frozen water isn't so good...
Mary