What is the best base for in the run?

[sasmith2770]

I have been using straw/ leaves in the run for 2 years now but this year it has gotten really bad with odor. Trying to determine what is the best product to keep odors low and control the mud situation(1/3 of run is not covered)but not have a lot of work to clean as I have some medical issues that are preventing me from doing alot of things I could before. I live in Southwest PA where we have had a pretty cold and snowy winter this year so not sure if that is why I'm now suddenly having a problem. I just want my girls to have a warm, dry and non- stinky place to enjoy!

 

[StinkyAcres]

First of all, how many chickens do you have and how big is your run? Overcrowding can cause problems with poop buildup, bad run smell, etc.

I recommend wood chips (not shavings). No need to clean them out (IF your run is sized correctly), just add more when the old chips have decomposed.

 

[GracePoultry]

Whenever my run starts to smell I'll add roost refresh and some horse stall pellets to soak up any water

 

[Shadrach]

Dig over the ground to at least 12 inches deep.
That usually sorts out smeels and water retention.

 

[sasmith2770]

First of all, how many chickens do you have and how big is your run? Overcrowding can cause problems with poop buildup, bad run smell, etc.

I recommend wood chips (not shavings). No need to clean them out (IF your run is sized correctly), just add more when the old chips have decomposed.

I have 15 girls. The run is 20x20 and there is also an 8x8 area under the coop.

Can I use woodchips from a commercial tree company or do you purchase from a retailer?
Was wondering about adding some peat also?

 

[aart]

Can I use woodchips from a commercial tree company or do you purchase from a retailer?

Yes. Hopefully you have a space to store the big pile they would bring.

Thaw season can definitely be more stinky.