WATER

The earth will never have more water than it does today. The only source of water for our planet is our planet. The rain that falls is water that has evaporated to the atmosphere, gathered in clouds and returns to the earth as shown in this graphic from the USGS. When I first saw the graphic I remembered 6th or 7th grade science class. Please don't ask me how long ago that was. It also brings into focus the fact that what goes down our drains and is sent to the atmosphere will eventually be found in the earth's water.

A recent report by the Ralph Nader Study Group, after reviewing over 10,000 documents acquired through the Freedom Of Information Act, stated, “U.S. drinking water contains more than 2100 toxic chemicals that can cause cancer.”

It's a logical assumption that the quality of the water we drink will have a very significant effect on our overall health.

The human body is
70% water
the brain is 85% water
blood is 90% water
the human liver, one of our most vital organs is 96% water!

We hear of private  wells and municipal water becoming contaminated. One dramatic case in Canada was Walkerton, Ontario. The town water supply was contaminated when cow manure was carried into the town well during a heavy rain. Only ten days after the contamination the first person died from E Coli.

If you use an ordinary garden "Green" hose to fill your drinkers you could be giving the birds the chemicals used in the manufacture of the hose. If the hose is exposed to the sun toxic chemicals can be released that can cause sickness. I have heard of a couple of instances where that has happened. Hose "White Hose" PVC lining designed for potable water is available and can be purchased RV dealers and some farm supply stores as a livestock hose. Tubing for potable water at your plumbing supply.

We spend money on grain, probiotics, vitamins, minerals etc. it stands to reason the water should be the best quality we can provide. Wouldn't it be a good idea to be sure?

The birds can tolerate some things that would make us very sick. That does not mean that they would not feel an effect that could influence their performance. We expect the birds perform every race. Would it be wise to even take the chance that exposure to something in the water could affect them and could be eliminated very easily? If your water comes from a municipal source do you think the chlorine is good for you or the birds? The chlorine is easily filtered and will evaporate if the water is left in an open container overnight. Many other chemicals in the water can be filtered with a relatively inexpensive system. Something as simple as an “On Tap”, "Whole House" or "Under The Counter" filter. Before you purchase a filter your water should be analyzed so you know what type will best suit your requirement. In the United States the EPA list of certified labratories can be found by clicking here. In Canada start with the Enviroment Canada web site by clicking here.

One site where you can find a lot of information on what to do and how to do is: http://www.pondprofessor.com/

For the Water Resources of the United States click here to go to the USGS site.

Knowing what both your family and your birds are drinking would be a good thing to know. Sending a sample to a laboratory to be analyzed. If the test reveal a problem, taking effective action would be a big step toward better health for anyone that takes a drink from your tap.