Last updated on January 25th, 2022 at 11:46 am
USER GUIDE: TIPS FOR SUCCESS
1. CONSUMPTION GUARANTEE: COSTGUARD90™ is the Riomax® lick tub consumption guarantee so that if the intake on the Riomax® lick tubs is higher than the specified amount, when averaged over a minimum of a 90-day timeframe, we will provide you with free product to compensate for the overconsumption. The Riomax® tubs are very low intake with most having a guaranteed maximum of 1/4 or 1/3 lb/hd/day on cattle.
Note: COSTGUARD90™ does not cover horses.
FACTORS IMPACTING CONSUMPTION:
- Weather
- Animal size
- Health status
- Stage of production
- Quality and availability of feedstuffs and water may also have an effect on consumption levels.
Follow these guidelines to manage consumption in view of achieving the desired intakes.
HIGH CONSUMPTION: By design, Riomax® lick tubs absorb moisture from the air, which continually softens the exposed surface of the tub. Normally, the more tubs (surface area) available per cow, the higher the rate of daily intake. If consumption is higher than our recommended intakes, we suggest removing some tubs to reduce the available surface area. Place tubs away from areas where cattle tend to congregate. Place one or two salt blocks on top of the tubs to decrease the surface area. Ensure there are other sources of salt available to the cattle. Use loose salt when possible.
LOW 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.
SALT & WATER: 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.
SMALL GROUPS: 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.
2. INITIAL TUB FEEDING: Position tubs where cattle can easily locate them. Set 1 tub out to every 50 hd and monitor intake. Slight overconsumption can be expected during the first few weeks as cattle get onto the tubs. Make sure to offer free-choice salt. If using block salt, set out 2 salt blocks to every 1 tub, or approximately 1 block per 25 hd. 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. STORAGE: Tubs, and loose mineral 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 lb tubs more than 2 high, 125 lb tubs more than 3 high, and 60 lb tubs more than 6 high.
4. BIOBRIX™: 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.
Our goal is to provide a customer experience that is a breath of fresh air both to the dealer and to the end-user. The Customer Care Team is available to answer any questions that you may have. Not sure about consumption, formulas, tub placement, etc? We’ve got your back – give us a call. There is always a real, living, breathing person just a phone call away. 888-848-4765