Chicken run ideas need help

[Fdny11Bravo]

So I’m finishing this area for the chickens it’s a mess right now but want to make it look nice for spring, can i use this mulch ? I let them run around this area usually all day (it’s a mess right now i know).

 

[Fdny11Bravo]

They also have a 20x40 area under a 4ft raised deck that’s all dirt that they run around in and crush bugs all day but i wanted this area to look nice, is this mulch safe ? Just trying to figure out what will look nice and not be an eye sore.

 

[aart]

I personally would not use anything with dye in it.
But I have a place to store a large pile of wood chippings.

More pics here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/albums/runs.7427859/

 

[Fdny11Bravo]

I personally would not use anything with dye in it.
But I have a place to store a large pile of wood chippings.

More pics here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/albums/runs.7427859/

Yes that’s what i was worried about the dye, unfortunately i don’t have access to that anywhere close to me, they do sell a natural pine bark mulch you think that would be better?

 

[3KillerBs]

I agree, no dyed mulch.

Plain wood chips (not cedar), are excellent for a chicken run because they'll neutralize the poop in a composting reaction but will take longer to break down than other common beddings.

 

[Fdny11Bravo]

I agree, no dyed mulch.

Plain wood chips (not cedar), are excellent for a chicken run because they'll neutralize the poop in a composting reaction but will take longer to break down than other common beddings.

Ok thank you i guess i gotta find some natural wood chips somewhere

 

[Chickensandhorsesforlife]

My run is a dirt floor wirh pine straw to kick around in. Chickens love it!

 

[3KillerBs]

My run is a dirt floor wirh pine straw to kick around in. Chickens love it!

Here in the southern US I love pine straw -- free for the raking in my yard.

But in many localities it's either not available at all or available only at a premium price.

 

[aart]

they do sell a natural pine bark mulch you think that would be better?

Yep!
They might have some bagged that is not dyed...may have to ask for it.

 

[Fdny11Bravo]

Yep!
They might have some bagged that is not dyed...may have to ask for it.

This is as close as they recommended