What is a common source of water contamination on a sheep farm?

Manure runoff is a common source of water contamination on a sheep farm due to the large volume of waste produced. When sheep are housed in or around water sources, particularly during wet weather, their manure can wash into nearby streams, rivers, or lakes. This runoff can introduce pathogens, nutrients, and organic matter into the water system, leading to potential harm to aquatic ecosystems and human health. The nitrogen and phosphorus from manure can cause algal blooms and eutrophication, further impacting water quality.

Other sources of water contamination, such as pesticide runoff, stormwater drainage, and fertilizer leaching, are also significant environmental concerns. However, manure runoff is particularly relevant in the context of sheep farming, as it directly results from the animals' presence and can occur frequently in pastures and feedlots. Understanding the impact of livestock waste management is crucial for maintaining water quality and mitigating contamination risks on sheep farms.