Hey there I'm on Central coast. I use sand in my run. I have it half covered so it doesn't get too hot. Summers can get up to 105 or so. I also just pine shavings as the nest box material. I have 4 salmon faverolles and right now 6 10 week old buff orpingtons but 3 are rehoming due to law and ordiences. I can only have max 8 chickens.