Last updated on November 22nd, 2023 at 12:47 pm
as simple as 1, 2, 3
as simple as 1, 2, 3
1. storing the tubs
Tubs must be stored in a dry location, ideally out of high heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Do not lay tubs on their sides. Do not stack 250-pound tubs more than two high, 125- pound tubs more than three high, and 60-pound tubs more than six high.
2. feeding the tubs
Position tubs where cattle can easily locate them. Set one tub out to every 50 head and monitor intake. Some overconsumption can be expected during the first few weeks as cattle get onto the tubs. Always offer free- choice salt when feeding Riomax® Lick Tubs unless consulted otherwise. If using block salt, set out 2 salt blocks to every 1 tub or approximately 1 block per 25 head. If using loose salt, a minimum of 1 loose salt feeding station per 200 head is recommended. Placing 1 salt block on top of each tub is a good practice to help reduce the potential for initial high consumption of the Riomax® tub.
3. managing consumption
Consumption levels may vary according to the factors listed on the right. Cows will self-regulate on Riomax® tubs between 1/8 - 1/3 lb per head per day. It’s important to know that its never just one factor that affects consumption up or down, it is always a combination of factors that causes variation in consumption. Use these principles as a guide for how to predict and manage your tub consumption so you can achieve the correct consumption.
If consumption is lower than our recommended intakes, we suggest adding additional tubs as needed. Place tubs in loafing area, wind-break area, or where the cattle are fed, rather than just by the water source. Place salt blocks on top of the tubs and remove all other sources of salt. In lush pasture situations, tub consumption is typically lower. To encourage consumption, remove all salt from the pasture, and set the tubs in the congregation areas, around water sources, in shelter areas, etc. Reintroduce salt once consumption has increased.
Always offer free-choice salt when feeding Riomax® Lick Tubs, unless consulted otherwise. If using block salt, set out 2 salt blocks to every 1 tub or approximately 1 block per 25 hd. If using loose salt, provide adequate feeding stations. A recommended amount is a minimum of 1 loose salt feeding station per 200 hd. In the event of high consumption, make sure to offer loose salt. Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
By design, Riomax® lick tubs absorb moisture from the air, which continually soften the exposed surface of the tub. Normally, the more tubs (surface area) available per cow, the higher the rate of daily intake. If you have groups smaller than 50 hd, it may result in too much licking surface area being available and consumption may go up. Move the tub away from the loafing area if possible and reduce the amount of exposed surface area by placing salt blocks or loose salt on top of the tub as needed.
Biodegradeable tubs:
These biodegradable tubs are an excellent choice for large pastures, mountain pastures, forest allotments, etc. Do not use in low/wet areas or areas of confinement that are prone to extremely muddy conditions.
6 visual differences ranchers notice using the riomax tubs.
1. manure score improvement
2. body condition
Improved body condition with the same forage quality or feed amount.
WITH RIOMAX®
WITHOUT RIOMAX®
3. forage savings
More days on a pasture or more forage left when you move.
WITH RIOMAX®
WITHOUT RIOMAX®
4. haircoat
Cattle slicking off with a smooth and shinier haircoat.
WITH RIOMAX®
WITHOUT RIOMAX®
5. feed savings
Not cleaning up all the hay or feed you’re giving them. Then, you can feed less.
WITH RIOMAX®
WITHOUT RIOMAX®
6. contentment
Laying down earlier in the day (not grazing as long).
WITH RIOMAX®
WITHOUT RIOMAX®