Student project: Goats for Water

[Nanno]

This is a very interesting project, and I am very glad you found this community! Using goats to haul water is brilliant. However, I know there is going to be a LOT of concern about the design of your pack. It appears to have no rigid saddle to support the weight. Water is very heavy, and such weight should never be put directly on an animal's spine. Saddles without rigid trees are not only hard on an animals back, they are also notorious for slipping sideways and spilling the contents. 

I don't have time to research for you at the moment, but I know I have seen plans and instructions on how to make a proper wooden packsaddle for goats somewhere before, either on the internet or perhaps in a book on goat packing. I know there are also people in this forum who have made their own packsaddles and might have some help for you in that department. One thing that might be really helpful is you could order the do-it-yourself saddle kit from Northwest Packgoats. This will have all the parts you need plus instructions on assembly, which could be an excellent tool to help you start making your own wood saddles from scratch. It is well worth the initial investment of buying a kit if it helps you start off on the right foot. 

I can't wait to hear how this project progresses!