Covered Mineral Feeding at Ground Level
The Sioux Steel ground mineral feeder provides three compartments beneath a flexible, lift-up flap. Its low-profile polyethylene base holds up to 200 pounds of mineral, giving cattle access to supplements at a dedicated feeding point in the pasture.
The flap covers the feeding area between visits, helping shield the contents from weather and debris. Cattle lift the flexible edge to reach the compartments. Check that animals are using the feeder and monitor both intake and mineral condition as part of your normal herd management.
Dimensions and Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Sioux Steel S179218 ground mineral feeder |
| Capacity | Up to 200 pounds of mineral; varies with material |
| Compartments | 3 |
| Base dimensions | Approximately 38 inches wide × 15 inches high |
| Overall dimensions with flap | Approximately 41 inches wide × 17 inches high |
| Feeder weight | 53 pounds |
| Flap | Replaceable, approximately 3/8 inch thick |
| Anchoring | 3 built-in anchor locations |
| Warranty | One-year limited manufacturer warranty, subject to its terms |
The base and overall dimensions describe different parts of the feeder. Allow for the wider flap when choosing a location or checking clearance. Capacity is a total for the feeder, not a separate 200-pound allowance for each compartment.
How the Three-Compartment Design Helps
The divided base provides separate spaces for suitable mineral or supplement products. It keeps the contents in a feeding pan above the ground rather than in direct contact with soil. Use each product according to its feeding directions; a compartmented feeder does not measure an individual animal's intake.
When refilling, inspect all three compartments. Remove wet, spoiled or accumulated material before adding fresh supplements, and check that the flap returns over the feeding area.
Mineral Feeder in Pasture Use
Poly Base and Replaceable Flap
The molded polyethylene body will not rust like a steel pan. Its tapered, low-profile shape helps resist tipping, while three built-in anchoring locations allow additional stabilization for the site. Use an appropriate anchoring arrangement for the ground conditions and livestock pressure.
The flexible rubber flap is a separate component from the polyethylene base. It is designed for repeated lifting during feeding and can be replaced when worn. The retaining hardware supports the center attachment, but regular inspection remains important for spotting tears, loose hardware or other damage.
Placement and Routine Care
Place the feeder on firm, reasonably level ground where cattle can reach it and you can refill it easily. Avoid locations where water pools around the base. The flap helps protect the minerals, but it is not a watertight seal and does not guarantee that feed will stay dry in every condition.
Check use after moving the feeder or introducing cattle to it. Refill frequency depends on the supplement, herd size and consumption. Review intake against the supplement manufacturer's guidance rather than assuming the feeder alone controls how much each animal receives.
Dimension Reference
Older reference images may show earlier specifications. Use the current table above for the listed base and overall dimensions and feeder weight.
Pasture Photo
Replacement Flap and Hardware
Keep the feeder serviceable with the mineral feeder flap kit or replacement hardware kit. Check the contents of the selected kit before ordering so you receive the parts needed for your repair.
Ground Mineral Feeder Video Review
Ground Mineral Feeder Reviews
- in a single report from a rancher's point of view:As a rancher raising and managing a herd, investing in a quality mineral feeder is essential for keeping my livestock healthy. This Mineral Feeder has been a great addition to ensure I'm providing the necessary supplements to my growers in an easy manner.
First off, this feeder is impressively robust. Built to withstand rough conditions, whether it's the weather or the occasional rough handling from the cattle, I’ve used it through seasons of rain, snow, and harsh sun, and it has held up remarkably well. The poly feeder base can take a lot of abuse without an issue. The rubber top flap is 3/8 inch thick and doesn't tear around the pin. The Mineral Feeder Flap Kit is sold at BarnWorld.com if it's ever needed individually.
The feeder base construction is solid, and it's large enough to ensure all my cattle get their share of the minerals, even during peak feeding times. The ease of providing essential nutrients to my herd is another huge advantage. Before using this feeder, it was a hassle trying to make sure each cow got the right amount of supplements. Now, I just load the minerals into the feeder, and the cattle come to it when they need it.
It’s made managing their intake a lot easier, and I’ve noticed improved growth and overall health, especially in my younger stock. The feeder's design also ensures that rainwater doesn’t mix with the minerals, so I don’t have to worry about wasted or spoiled feed.
One of the best features is its durability. I’ve had this feeder for over a year, and it still works as well as new, with very little wear and tear. It’s clearly built to last, which is a major plus considering the wear that comes with daily use on a ranch. I might need a few replacement flaps next year, but I see this as a long-term investment that’s going to pay for itself many times over. It makes it easy to improve the health and weight gains of my herd while minimizing maintenance and labor.
If you’re a rancher looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and long-lasting feeder, I can’t recommend this Ground Mineral Feeder enough. It’s a practical, low-maintenance solution that supports the nutritional needs of livestock, even in the toughest conditions.