I like this idea. I will probably use a 3 gal and maybe have it 4" above the ground. Yes I know they will kick some dirt in it, but not much as they free range all but several days a year. I will try it with straw around the top/over the dirt. I can pick out the straw. Not worried about the dirt as they get it in their bowls now and think it yummy.
Alternate method to prevent water freezing.
- Author R2elk
- Publish date
- Article read time 2 min read
R2elk
It works for me because I do not have a small coop with too many birds in it. I also do not use litter. My floor is sand. There is no litter for the birds to kick in it.
R2elk
You are mistaken. I have used this method for over 30 years with success. There is no need to add a solar powered pump or use any electricity. whether solar powered or otherwise. I do not have any problem with anything being kicked into the bucket. There is the occasional feather that gets dropped in d is easily removed.
R2elk
This method is not meant for chicks, chicks need heat. Adult chickens do not need heat. There is a drawing posted of a proposed cover that would prevent chicks from falling in, in the imsges section.
R2elk
You have obviously never tried the method or you would know that your claims are not true. Except when I am cleaning the bucket, I refill it daily with fresh water either from a hose or by filling a smaller bucket and pouring the water in. In my case I have water handy because I have a frost free hydrant inside the coop where the bucket is.
One of the requirements for the composting to take place is that the manure has to be damp. Once it is thoroughly damp I can pull the bucket back up out of the hole and the hole does not collapse. If the manure was dry, the hole would collapse but there also would not be any composting taking place3 to provide the heat.
Your proposed solution is not necessary for me.
Rating this article poorly shows exactly why you have done the rating anonymously.
One of the requirements for the composting to take place is that the manure has to be damp. Once it is thoroughly damp I can pull the bucket back up out of the hole and the hole does not collapse. If the manure was dry, the hole would collapse but there also would not be any composting taking place3 to provide the heat.
Your proposed solution is not necessary for me.
Rating this article poorly shows exactly why you have done the rating anonymously.
R2elk
Works better with horse manure but he's long gone.
R2elk
Keeping the top of the bucket at least 4" above the ground level helps keep dirt, etc. from being kicked into the bucket.
What a great idea! 
This is fabulous! Why have I never thought of this before!
