Made a new water trough for the sheep
Finally took the time to make the new water trough for the pig-sheep. I had one 50 gal drum left from my purchase earlier this year that wasn't being used for hauling spent grain and was slated for this purpose.
First I used my pinky to thumb distance from the mold line to mark out my cut line lengthwise and then the end lines were gauged of each end.
Next was drilling the pilot hole that is large enough to allow for the jigsaw blade to fit easily.
I set my jigsaw to high speed and zeroed on each plane. The blade is a general purpose one that is able to cut all non-metal types of materials.
Using the jigsaw the cuts are made around the marked lines. I rounded each of the corners which should help with the structural stability of the opening. I don't want the thing collapsing at any point and sharp corners could allow it to more easily than the rounded.
Being a homesteader, the cut out piece of the barrel already has a use. My oldest was with me while I made the trough and he instantly picked up the piece and held it like a shield. SO, I am cutting the piece in half and will be making a shield for each boy. Then they can beat on each other with a modicum of safety...
The killer part of the barrel is that I have drain plugs which can be used for, draining... But also it is just under 50 gallons of water so the pig-sheep should be able to make it a week before I need to refill it.
I made a...
♫♫ ROCK CRADLE ♫♫
It sits level and stable with the ♫♫ ROCK CRADLE ♫♫ so the animals shouldn't knock it over and once the snow and ice lock it in place it will be solid.
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Fleming Family Farm
FLEMING FAMILY FARM, LLC
Sustainable & Organic Methods | Heirloom Produce
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Great job Thank you for sharing
That should work out pretty well to water the critters.
Just trying to get them over the "new stuff" jitters they always have. Anything new in the pen and they act like it will reach out and bit em.
Ingenious idea to water the animals. Nice idea to take the cut out piece to make shields for the boys...very creative.
I had it in my head, but when he picked it up and used it as a shield, I knew it was meant to be. I need to get a couple handles to bolt on for them to hold onto.
Nice free water tank !