How to Remove Algae Growth in an Equine Stock Tank

Active horses can consume up to 18 gallons of water per day.

High quality water is critical for the health and well being of a horse. According to North Dakota State University, sedentary horses require about 7 gallons of water a day while lactating mares, or horses that work up a sweat can consume up to 18 gallons per day. Growth of algae makes the water unappetizing to the horse, reducing its consumption, which may cause health problems. Algae-tainted water may even have toxic properties; so it's important to remove algae promptly, when it's found in your horse's stock tank.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach water solution
• Copper sulfate
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Clean the water tank often. Drain the water from the tank and wash the interior with a 10 percent bleach and water and solution. Rinse the tank with clear water before filling it with water for the horses.

2. Add copper sulfate, sometimes called bluestone, to the water. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on commercial products; but one teaspoon of copper sulfate commonly treats up to 1,500 gallons of water, making it a product more suitable for large tanks.

3. Sprinkle baking soda on the water tank. Start with a couple of teaspoons and monitor the tank. If algae continues, add more baking soda. Baking soda is not considered as effective a deterrent to algae as cleaning and copper sulfate.

Tips & Warnings

• Blue-green algae is toxic. Symptoms include muscle tremors and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, in pasture situations, the symptoms may advance so quickly that the animal dies before symptoms are noted.

References

• North Dakota State University: Livestock Water Quality
• Ohio State University: Water Tanks
• South Dakota State University: Blue Green Algae Dangers