We'd love your opinion on our setup! The more the merrier!

[BarredCometLaced]

We are putting a tarp over the run in winter so that the snow does not rip of the netting.

Once again, hardware cloth can not be done. It would be if i were in control of finances, but i am not

So i will add some rocks around the edges.

 

[karlamaria]

You find that snow will make a mess a and you will be clearing a path, so its smart is to add a top to your run, to keep snow and predators out. Owls etc. We have that dog kennel, we put a board through it and it made a great roost for my girls. We hang the nipple bucket out there on the end of said board ( with a top on it) are you going to let them out to get grass and greens or just keep them in there all the time?

 

[karlamaria]

Quote:
A tarp will rip, it's not going to hold the weight, getting poles on each end, and putting a slant metal roof will be better, the snow will slide off

 

[BarredCometLaced]

We are not aloud to free range in our subdivision (crazy dogs off leash every where too). So we will be delivering grass to them via lawn mower and shears. They will also receive fresh veggies and corn... i wish i could free range them (so much healthier). Next year we might also extend the run. I will be saving my money!

My dad is thinking of attaching the tarp at a steep angle from the trees to the right of the run. He built his own house ( and rabbit hutch) so he must know a little bit of construction. We might add a metal roof next year if funds are available.

 

[cat1994]

I think the netting may work for winter, just bust off the snow every day and maybe put a pole in the middle for support and maybe some in the corners, it really just depends on how bad your winters can get, mine have never gotten bad enough to tear down my netting, I do have a lot of poles supporting it though, a trap will probably bust easier than netting.

 

[hallerlake]

I have a similar set up.

For now, I have a shade cloth on top. The chickens are shut up securely in the coop at night. Come fall, I'm going to put a PVC arch and tarp over the top to keep out rain and snow. Mine will be steeper than the one pictured, so the snow will slide off rather than accumulate. I may put wire under the tarp. I haven't decided.

 

[BarredCometLaced]

Thats exactly what we were thinking of doing! And i had not even thought of using the shade clothes... I'll let my folks know about that.