an automated watering trough is provided with a fluid supply line that automatically fills the trough to a desired volume through the use of a valve and actuator . a protective housing may be provided to substantially encase the valve and actuator , along with an optional overflow conduit , to reduce the incidence of contact between livestock and the automation components . the shell of the trough may be comprised of a recycled tire provided with a base plug , which may support the protective tower and automation components .