INNISFAIL, Alta. – Alana Shannon had more questions than answers after
reading contradictory information about suitable water temperatures for
livestock.
“I read that it was OK for cattle to consume snow as a water source.
Then I read another article that said it wasn’t OK. So I wanted to
basically find out if it was or wasn’t OK,” she said.
Her curiousity ultimately led Shannon, 14, to embark on a major
research project that earned her a spot at the National Science Fair in
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Saskatoon May 11-19.
Agriculture Canada scientists at the Lacombe Research Centre helped her
collect samples of rumen fluid from fistulated steers on a forage diet.
These animals have a special apparatus fitted into their sides that
enable scientists to examine them internally.
Shannon’s completed project describes how a cow’s digestive system
works and includes graphics that demonstrate protozoa activity when
subjected to temperatures of 10 C, 20, 29and 37.
She concluded that snow and ice water are not ideal for livestock
because they slow microbe activity in the rumen. The warmer the water,
the better cattle digest feed and gain weight.
“My results showed 37 degrees would be the best,” she said.
People often allow cattle to eat snow or drink ice water to save on
heating costs. Cattle in winter swath grazing programs consume snow as
a principal water source, but Shannon’s research suggests the benefits
of swath grazing may be offset by lower rates of weight gain.
“It is important that people not jump to the conclusion that cattle
eating snow or drinking ice water appears to save money and is a good
practice or innovation,” she said.
“It is important to research first and see if the idea is worthwhile.”
Shannon’s parents, Loree and Dennis Shannon, have a Maine Anjou herd
and did not interfere with their daughter’s project, which began last
December.
Dennis heats the water in his cattle troughs but never thought about
the scientific applications.
“I always think the water is warmer than it should be but know now it’s
not,” he said.
When Alana goes to Saskatoon, the science fair judges will hear her
oral report and examine her field notes and logbooks. In addition, a
thorough, properly written five-page report is required.
Her research into rumen function and water temperature is unique, said
her science mentor Al Schaefer at Lacombe.
“No one has really looked at the question of snow impact on
microflora,” he said.
The Lacombe Research Centre regularly allows students to use the lab
equipment and pick the brains of the staff scientists.
They show students how to develop a research question and develop a
hypothesis culminating in a final annotated report with references.
The science fair project was part of Alana’s Grade 9 science class
requirements and is worth 10 percent of her final mark.
The experience has encouraged Alana to sign up for a heavy science load
for Grade 10. She hopes it will lay the foundation for a career in
science.
