Using Sand

[Frankiegirl]

You can use sand in a muddy area, but you’ll need to build up the area or resolve the water issue. I’d also recommend covering the run - or at least part of it. Where are you located? Pics of your setup would also be helpful.

I’m in way southern Ohio, where it’s always hot and rainy. We have a 10’ by 25’ partially covered run with sand that is about ten inches deep. We got washed, coarse, natural river sand from the local quarry to use in the coop and the run and it works like a charm. During the winter, we cover the unroofed part of the run with a reinforced clear plastic tarp that we secure to the fencing with bungees. It keeps that area dry so the eight girls can use it all winter long. During the summer, the tarp comes off so they get sunshine. Because two-thirds of the run is covered, they always have dry sand to walk and dustbathe in.

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Here’s a close up of the sand.
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Such a great idea!! I am building my coop right now for my first batch of chicks and have read that sand is a great alternative. I love in SW Michigan and get pretty bad winters.

 

[Farmgirl1878]

@Mfranks our winters are usually cold and rainy and the sand works great when I keep the run wrapped with plastic. Everything stays dry which makes the girls happy campers!

 

[Farmgirl1878]

We live in Maryland. We just ordered some new chicks which is why it looks green inside the run. We are going to take your advice and try to add a cover for the run.

Where in Maryland? We just moved out to Ohio from PG County a few years ago. It’s soooooooooo much better out here!

 

[chickentherapy1]

Where in Maryland? We just moved out to Ohio from PG County a few years ago. It’s soooooooooo much better out here!

Montgomery County. Been here all my life.