Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A wide counter makes mixing rations convenient. A regularly updated feed board
helps to ensure that a horse gets the same ration each day, no matter who feeds.
Feed bins in lieu of a feed room can work if they are rodent- and horse-proof, but they
are sometimes difficult to work out of. Storing feed in garbage cans in the aisle is risky. I
don't know too many horses that couldn't easily remove a garbage can lid. Filling an extra
stall with hay or bedding may be convenient, but it does add fire risk.
TOOL STORAGE
Plan a place in the barn that is exclusively for tools and extra equipment. This will help
keep the main barn aisle uncluttered. The tool area should be away from traffic areas and
out of reach of horses to prevent injury to horses and damage to tools. Here is where you
can store brooms, forks, a shovel, rake, cart or wheelbarrow, manure basket, stall freshener,
and other stall-cleaning equipment. The tool room is also a good place for a small tool kit,
a flashlight, and a fire extinguisher.
Water
Besides the stall waterers and the tack room sink, additional hydrants and faucets in and
around the barn are convenient. Hydrants should be self-draining and frost-free and located
in a safe place. Pipes leading to the stable should be buried 3 feet or more, depending on
the depth of the frost line in your locale. One of the places you will want water, and hot
water if you can afford it, is the wash rack and/or laundry area (often located in the tack
room). The washing machine can empty into the wash rack drain or into a septic system if
you were required to install one for a barn lavatory. If there is no septic system involved in
your barn, the drains from sink, wash rack, and washing machine can lead to a dry well, a
large hole filled with gravel that is used to dissipate water into the soil. A dry well is much
cheaper than a septic system, if your building code will allow it.
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