Water filtration around range cattle

koppertop

FNG
Joined
Jul 11, 2016
Messages
62
I recently scouted a good looking area that I would like to return and hunt. Unfortunately the few water sources I found were hammered by range cattle. There were cow pies in and adjacent to the water, trampled muddy ground etc. That said the water was flowing crystal clear, no sediment or murkiness whatsoever. Small mountain springs/streams that are 1-2 feet across.

Would you do anything different in such a situation with regards to water filtration, or just filter as usual and don't worry about it? I was shocked and a bit disappointed to find range cattle in this high mountain basin but the deer sign looks good so I'll likely head back. My backcountry water sources thus far have been free of anything that has made me think "yuck!"

Thanks
KT
 

Bbrinks

FNG
Joined
Aug 28, 2017
Messages
81
Location
Illinois
I would just filter as usual, and add an inline charcoal filter or mix in some drink powder if the taste was off
 

Turkeygetpwnd38

WKR
Classified Approved
Joined
Aug 11, 2017
Messages
2,431
Location
Florida
Has this happen a few times, definitely made me nervous at first. I just used a Steripen and never had an issue.
 
Joined
Dec 26, 2013
Messages
3,758
Location
Edmond, OK
Partner and I had a similar situation a couple of years ago. I used my Hiker Pro and he used a Steripen. Neither one of us had issues with either set up. A little unnerving but no harm noticed.


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HawkCreek

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
May 10, 2015
Messages
139
I treat it the same. Does anyone think other animals besides cattle don't shit in the water?
 
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