Mineral Tubs

I've never bought minerals in a tub for the place, as tubs seems pretty large for my livestock and the formula specifically for bovine health, rather than goats, so I purchase minerals by the block and by the bag.  This cold winter, though, I've made a wonderful discovery and would like to share it.  I've also been quite blessed with a gift.

Once the mineral tubs are empty, they serve virtually no use for cattle ranchers, as they only hold about 25 or 30 gallons, therefore too small to use as stock tanks for large livestock.  Until this year, I've used 55 gallon barrels cut in half and one stock tank.  When I noticed the difference of ice thickness between the black stock tank and blue half barrels, I started taking note!

I had no idea the feed companies do not want those big black tubs back!  Most of the people I know who do have livestock have cattle, and they have no use for those tubs.  With no return policy, the ranchers are happy to get them out of their pasture and off the place.

I checked prices.  Fifty-five gallon drums are about 20-25 dollars.  Thirty gallon black water tanks are about $60.00.  So far, I've saved over $200.00 and a lot of wear and tear on my body cracking ice!  The ice thickness in those blue plastic drums is at least double what forms in the black tubs.

Homesteaders, this is good knowledge to have!