Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Allowinghorsesaccesstowetlandsisbadforhoovesanddestroysthewetlands,which
perform important functions.
There should be no old dumps or farm equipment in a pasture; horses can easily get hurt
on items hidden by tall grass.
There should be easy and safe access to free-choice, good-quality water. Natural sources
should be running, not stagnant. Know the source of the water your horse drinks. If it con-
tains agricultural runoff, it could be high in nitrates (see
chapter 14
,
Water). A trough or
automatic waterer should be kept clean and situated to minimize mud and to prevent a horse
from being crowded into a corner or against a fence.
Pastures should be well drained with no bogs or stagnant water. Ideally, the soil will not
be sandy.
The pasture should provide shelter—either natural (trees, rocks, or terrain) or man-made
(shed or windbreak) to ward off sun, wind, cold precipitation, and insects.
There should be free-choice salt and mineral blocks at all times.
A good field shelter
A good field shelter has the following characteristics:
Three sides with the fourth side completely open
Back to the prevailing weather
Front entry height at least 12 feet
Made of weatherproof, safe, durable materials that don't invite chewing
Safe, comfortable footing
Enough room for all horses (approximately 150 square feet per horse)
Easy access for cleaning
