Mineral supplementation for beef cattle is an integral part of their balanced diet. Not only does it promote calf health and rebreeding, but there are numerous other benefits as well.
Adele Harty, South Dakota State University Extension cow-calf field specialist, says that the best mineral for cattle depends on what species of grass the animal eats.
Loose mineral is often an attractive option for some producers, though it may prove challenging to feed some.
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How to Build a Barrel
Cattle not only require their normal food, but they also need various minerals. A homemade mineral feeder is an economical and frugal way to ensure your animals remain well-fed.
Cattle herds typically require one mineral feeder per 30 head of cows. Ideally, this feeder should be situated near water sources where cattle frequently visit.
Cattle mineral intake should be monitored to guarantee all animals get enough minerals each day, otherwise you will end up losing money and wasting valuable minerals.
A reliable solution to this problem is using a mineral feeder made of durable plastic. These are durable enough to withstand weather elements and the sometimes aggressive cattle that ranchers often have on hand.
Another option for a feeder is using a barrel with weatherproof cover. You can find barrels at most hardware stores or online.
How to Build a Truck Tire Barrel
On our homestead, the cattle require specific mineral supplements in addition to their regular feed. We’ve discovered that truck tires make ideal containers for this purpose.
This feeder is not only flexible and portable, but it’s also weatherproof and snow proof. If you don’t mind the risk of animal collision, make sure there’s a hole in the bottom for water drainage.
Over the years, we’ve made several of these feeders and they always work great. The key is selecting a heavy-duty tire (preferably diamond-tread) that can support the weight of grain and other contents. It helps if you have a towing hinge which allows dragging the feeder around from pasture to pasture without issue; then, simply reposition it at each new location with ease. For extra security, add bolts at both front and back of tire for additional support.
How to Build a Covered Barrel
Create a covered barrel for your cattle mineral feeder to keep the minerals dry, prevent flies from getting inside, and shield the contents from rain or snowfall. With just some materials you have access to, this is an easy step that anyone can do.
You will need a rain barrel, spigot, plumber’s tape and reducing washer. Drill a hole in the bottom of your barrel on the side closest to your downspout using a 15/16-inch bit. Wrap the threaded end of the spigot in plumber’s tape before fitting with a reducing washer and screwing into place.
Once the spigot is installed, you should attach a fiberglass screen on top. You can secure this with staples or bungee cords to make cleaning your rain barrel easier and more effective.
How to Build a Covered Truck Tire Barrel
A mineral feeder is an affordable way to ensure your cattle get enough minerals. It’s important to note that one mineral tub will last about ten days per 50 head of cattle, so you should check them twice a week to make sure there’s still enough mineral in them for everyone.
When selecting a mineral feeder, the most essential thing to remember is finding one that works in your environment and meets your livestock’s requirements. Not only will this be an essential piece of equipment, but it will also protect your animals’ health and increase farm productivity.
A truck tire is an ideal mineral feeder because it’s durable, lightweight and provides protection from the elements. Furthermore, they’re more flexible than traditional rain barrels – perfect for when your cows need to be moved around during rotational grazing!
