Use of PINE shavings

[Kung Foo Chicken]

I don't use shavings anything. I use composted pine needles. They are much more absorbent and do not foul if it it gets damp like shavings. I noticed this effect when I moved my smaller coop with run on top of this stuff and it never became a slippery mess when it rains. It is like peat moss without the dust.

 

[Intheswamp]

How long must pine shavings "cure" or can they be used fresh from green wood? The reason I'm asking is that pine shavings are beginning to get less available...logging industry in bad shape in south Alabama...seems sawdust is beginning to be more available. I've got a chipper that will handle up to about a 4" limb and I've got access to pine limbs/tops/etc.,. Would it be worth making my own? Should I use green or dried limbs? Seems the green ones my gum up the chipper a bit. Thoughts?

Kung Foo Chicken, I know you moved your coup/run over the composted pine needles, but have you tried harvesting some from the woods? Tips?

Thanks,
Ed