Pasture Pens

[danschicks]

I am building pasture pens for this year's meaties. I have seen some pics on this site and I have read Joel Salatin's book on the topic. I have a good idea of what I am going to do. I am just wondering if anyone has some new innovations on the old idea. Does anyone use a skirt of hardware cloth around the outside to prevent digging predators? I am leaning toward a PVC pipe chimney into a trough feeder and the typical hanging waterer with reservoir bucket. Your input and pics are appreciated.

I am going to try 6 BBW turkeys in a pasture pen as well. 10X12X3. Thoughts on this?

 

[joedie]

I'm interested in the same thing. I saw a pic on here of a PVC pen that had hardware cloth attached to all sides and laying flat on the ground for predators. I hope this bumps the post for more responses.

 

[ccrawf]

I used similar set ups last year and the feeders and waterers were a real problem. Also had to use thicker pipe to give it the rigidity it needed. I too am interested in what others have done.

 

[bigredfeather]

[/img]

I decided not to use PVC. It is a little heavy, but I don't have to worry about it blowing away, plus I like building things with wood.

Hope this helps.

 

[ccrawf]

Bigred,
That helps a lot. Very similar to mine with PVC pipes. Not really sure there is a cost savings by using the pipe, and all the connectors cost a fortune. SO questions.
Did you use 2x4 or 2x2 lumber as the frame? Treated or untreated? Guess even untreated would last for a while.
What about the waterer and feeder? Have any explanations of those or pictures of them or the back? Thanks.
Mine were too ugly to take pictures of, or I would share mine.

 

[danschicks]

Bigred, excellent photo. You seem to have all the questions covered, including the skirting. If not too much of a problem, can you post a pic of, or explain how you provided the feed and water. Thanks

 

[Smokin Silkies]

bigred...nice set up! I may have to steal your idea for myself if you don't mind

 

[Smokin Silkies]

Quote:
Looks like the front top opens up and the water or the feeder is right there. Right where the latches are..

 

[danschicks]

BBfly, your right. I see the waterer now. I was too busy looking at the outside framing and skirting. Thanks

 

[bigredfeather]

The framing is made of 2"x2" treated lumber. I actually brooded my last batch of meaties right in the tractor, thus the reason for the heat lamp in pic below. I wrapped the exposed areas w/ a tarp to prevent a draft. For hanging the feeder, I put an eye hook to the right of were the heat lamp is and hung it under the roofed part to keep it dry. I put it close enough to the door that I could easily reach it.

[/img]

[/img]

Here shows the front access door. Getting the birds out of it on butcher day was a little tough. To make it easier, I am in the process of redoing it. I want to make the roofed area in the back hinged for easy access for getting them out. I also have a plan for a new type feeder. It is still in the engineering stage. This one is 6'x10'x2' tall. It will hold up to 40 birds. I also have another tractor that is 5'x9'x2'. It will house around 30 birds. It is much lighter and easier to move. I am going to make one more tractor 5'x9' so I can do batches of 100 this Summer.

Hope this helps. If you have anymore questions, feel free to ask.