Run bedding smells

[ChickaBob]

Just look for some tips if anyone has some.

I have had chickens now for 3 or 4 years and it is just this last summer than the run bedding is starting to smell.

I live in the city so I am worried about the neighbours.

I have been scooping the top layers off an piling it and then adding saw dust or straw to the top of the pile and the run. (the pile seems not not be the issue). Seems to work a tiny bit but not for very long. Maybe the smell is embedded deep down in the ground now???

Would love some tips please!

 

[AntiqueB]

I don't use any bedding in the run, but it is covered with a clear tarp year-round. When I only had it half covered, it smelled more. The moisture makes it smell, I think.

 

[DobieLover]

Would love some tips please!

Keep it as dry as possible and don't over populate the space.
How many birds do you keep and what is the square footage of the run?
Do you have a solid roof over the run and is it on high ground?

 

[ChickaBob]

Keep it as dry as possible and don't over populate the space.
How many birds do you keep and what is the square footage of the run?
Do you have a solid roof over the run and is it on high ground?

I only have 5 chickens and it is a big run. Almost like free ranging but with a large fence. 25'x20' plus some side shoots for them to play in.

It is not covered. I just fenced off half the back yard.