Please help with run placement! :)

[Henrie]

Hello! We are having a new run built for more space for our chickens. The only shaded part of the yard has exposed tree roots from the trees providing the shade. Is it ok to build the run over the exposed roots? I was planning to do a hardware cloth perimeter so if it isn’t sitting flat to the ground there is still predator protection. Our other option is to put the run in henhouse more in the center of the yard, plant some trees, and use some sort of shade cloth until the trees are big enough to provide some shade. The west afternoon sun would be bearing down on them here in SW Missouri. Including pics of the roots and the run set up. Thank you for any suggestions or help!

 

[WingItRanch]

I can't think of any issues with roots in the run except the chickens will dig around them so may damage the tree over time. You could put pavers down to make sure the ground is even for your frame. It really depends on what YOU want. Where you think it will look nicer. If you'd like it in the middle of the yard with new trees planted to provide shade, make sure to protect the roots of the new trees. The chickens will most likely want to scratch around and dust bathe at the base.

 

[Airyaman]

Will the roots be inside of the run or will the perimeter cross over the roots?

 

[MichaelDJ]

The will dig all around and under them looking for bugs. Ask me how I know ....

 

[Henrie]

Will the roots be inside of the run or will the perimeter cross over the roots?

Yes, the perimeter will be crossing over the roots. Some of the roots will be outside the run with the perimeter laying over the roots, and some of the roots will be inside the run. I do plant to put down some mulch, topsoil, leaves etc. inside the run.