Deep layer method + coops

HoldensLandingChickGirl

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Our first flock of chicks will be going outside in a few weeks to their new coop. We have a large 6 stall barn and we are adapting 1-2 of the stalls to be used as the chicken coop. My question is for those of you who use the deep layer method - does anyone use this method in a coop that you actually have to go into/walk around in? I am intrigued by the method, but don't know if it will work in a barn setting (with other animals (even though they will be separated) and with being in there). Will it be too stinky/gross for anyoen to want to go in the barn? Should I not consider it? Would love to hear anyone's experiences!
 
I've used it in my walk-in coop. Deep litter coops should not be stinky. If it is, you need to adjust how you're managing the litter. Sometimes it takes people a little while to figure out what they need to be doing and when.

I normally wear my boots or yard shoes for walking in coops and runs.
 
You start out with about 4 inches and keep adding as necessary, until you have quite a good depth of shavings. The chickens keep it pretty much fluffed up, if they don't, you need to add more shavings. Rake it to turn it now and then. It does NOT stink. I use it for small coops AND my larger, walk in coops.
 
No pictures are needed. Just throw down as many bags of pine shavings as it takes to make a layer about 4-5 inches deep. I sprinkled a couple of cups of Stall Dry (used in horse stalls to neutralize ammonia and dry up urine) in with it. I use a poop board under the roost and scrap it off into a bucket every 2-3 days. I started last July when I built my coop and didn't clean it out until just a couple of weeks ago. There was no stink! The only reason I really cleaned it all out and started with fresh shavings is because it was dusty and I was putting new chicks in one side to transition from brooder box to the coop. Dont worry...it aint rocket science
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There is no "the" deep litter method.

There are a whole big bunch of DIFFERENT ways of doing things, involving deepness of litter but with many other variables.

Some of these methods cause more moisture/odor problems than others, and what works for you will depend a lot on your particular building's situation. It is extremely NOT "one size fits all" or "follow the recipe". You will just have to experiment and see what you end up happy with.

The more dampness and composting you want happening, the more you'd better have a REALLY well ventilated barn, especially if other animals will be experiencing the same atmosphere. You may very well find that the management system you end up using is not what you initially thought you'd do.

Good luck, have fun,

Pat
 

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