Jessica Jahiel's HORSE-SENSE Newsletter Archives

Paddock liners

From: Amanda

Hi Jessica, What a wonderful resource -- I'm sending the URL out to all my horsy friends! I've searched your archives, but I haven't found this one. I know you're not in the business of recommending products, but I thought perhaps you may have heard of a relatively new product for lining paddocks. I'm considering putting in what I call "run-outs" from my stalls (maybe 12-14 x 20-25 feet) so that the horses can go in and out at will when weather or some other event makes turnout impossible. My land is more clay than dirt -- rock hard when dry and slippery as all get out when wet. I have learned from experience that a small run out will quickly become a mud hole, full of choppy holes. So I think I'll put down a sand base rather than kid myself that I'll be able to offer grazing in these run outs. I thought a liner would better control the situation. I'm also considering encircling the paddocks with 6X6 "boards" (budgetary issues depending) and raising the paddocks above the ground.

So, my question is threefold, I think. Have you heard of these liners (I've lost my reference and can't find anything on the Internet). And, do you think this is a wise plan. Or, can you recommend what sort of professional I can contact to help be plan and execute such a project?

Thanks again! Amanda

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