Long duration tractor in high desert of southern Utah

[Randaroo]

We just retired and moved to an acre in southern Utah (Apple Valley) elevation 5000 feet. This is a photo of the back yard which is mostly sand, weeds and sagebrush. I'd like to put in a semi permanent tractor for 6-10 layers. My plans are to only move the tractor once every week or two in order to build up the soil profile, control the weeds, not to mention raising birds, gathering eggs, tinkering, and quality of life enjoyment.I wouldn't mind putting in a permanent coop and run but like the tractor flexibility. I worry about predators, heat in the summer, and cold in the winter. I've haven't come across any posts regarding this particular set of variables and thought I'd go right to the source and ask the experts. Your advice or commiseration is greatly appreciated!

 

[WindyHillFarm]

It sounds like you have a great plan! I am a huge, huge fan of tractors. We have a couple of small ones that we move around the property, plus I built chicken tunnels for the garden so I have the option of letting them run through there occasionally to do pest control. Yes, it's a lot of work but really rewarding.
We use our tractors only in spring-summer-fall as winter here is brutal. Maybe consider building an insulated A-frame coop. It's one of the easiest designs to build, ought to take a quick weekend. I personally like the A-frame design because it sheds snow, stands up to wind, and looks nice. We used Roxul insulation from Lowes as hubby is allergic to fiberglass.
I've also heard of people digging their coops into the ground to provide added insulation - kind of like a root cellar! That would be a lot of work but would probably be ideal for high desert.
Good luck with your chickens!