What is an ELU?

Records of the Utah Division of Water Rights often utilize the term “ELU.” This abbreviation stands for Equivalent Livestock Unit, which is a standardized measure related to the watering of various sized livestock. For example, 1 ELU could represent 1 large animal, such as a cow or horse; 5 medium-sized animals, such as sheep or goats; or 33.33 small animals, such as chickens or turkeys. Accordingly, if you have a water right that allows for stockwatering of 50 ELUs, you would have enough water for 50 cows, or 250 sheep, or 1,666 chickens (or a combination of animals, such as 40 cows and 50 sheep).