Help...Ash tree wood chips ok?

[ShaggysGirl]

Hi guys,
I use the deep litter method. Currently one coop has pine shavings, and the other has shaving along with straw.
My Dad just had some ash trees cut down. They ground down the stumps and he has a lot of wood chips from that. Would that be ok for me to haul over and use in the coops? He said there is some dirt in there too, which I figure my chicks won't mind since they love dust baths.
DH is concerned about them being chips and not shaving and the fact they are from ash trees. I don't think Dad's trees had it but some around here have some ash tree disease.
Thanks
Rhonda

 

[patman75]

Most likely the ash trees died from emerald ash borrerer. I have lost many many many trees to them. Your chickens mght find some treats in those chips.

Ash wood chips will break down fast and are not good for mulch around flower beds. They might not last as long as pine and wont smell as nice.

 

[Judy]

But they won't hurt the chickens, and they are free, so I'd use them. You might need a bit more lime or DE or something to manage odors, depending on your setup.

 

[ShaggysGirl]

Thanks Pat & Dawn, Looks like I'll be shoveling wood chips next week