How to Eliminate Mud in a Run-in Shed

Mud is unhealthy and unsafe for horses and other animals.

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to preserving your animals' health. Although a run-in shed is a practical addition for any animal owner, its effectiveness is dramatically compromised if mud is present. A buildup of mud creates an unsafe environment for animals, which can result in thrush, joint and hoof problems. Keeping the mud out is not a difficult project but one that requires some time and comfort with working on a ladder.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Length of plastic gutter
• Ladder
• Power drill
• Nails
• Hammer
• Gutter end cap
• Gutter joint
• Gutter downspout
• Flat-bladed shovel
• 3/4-inch crushed gravel
• Hand tamper
• Fill dirt
• Wood shavings
• Rake
• Manure fork

Instructions

Gutter Installation

1. Measure the distance across the front of the run-in shelter. Purchase a length of plastic gutter to fit the shelter, according to the measurement taken.

2. Make a hole every 12 inches down one side on the top rim of the gutter with a drill. These will be holes for nailing in the gutters.

3. 

   Use caution when working on a ladder.

   Set a ladder up in front of the shed. Place the section of gutter on the front of the shed, directly below the roof overhang. Use nails and a hammer to attach the gutter to the shed, nailing through the pre-made holes in the gutter.

4. 

   Gutters are designed to direct water away from buildings.

   Snap a gutter end cap on one end of the gutter section. Snap a downspout onto the other end with a gutter joint. This will direct the runoff from the roof down and away from the shed.

Footing

1. Use a flat-bladed shovel to scoop out the top layer of mud inside and around the shed. Dispose of it in a location away from the shed.

2. 

   Crushed gravel promotes water drainage.

   Place a 6-inch layer of crushed gravel on top of the area where you removed the mud. Use a hand tamper to pack down the gravel and create a level surface. The gravel helps with water drainage and will prevent water from pooling inside and around the shed.

3. Spread a 1-inch layer of fill dirt on top of the gravel layer. This will make the gravel comfortable for the animals.

4. Spread a layer of wood shavings inside the shed. Rake the shavings around, adding enough to form a 6-inch layer. The wood chips will provide a layer of cushioning for the animals that use the shed and will soak up urine and excess water.

5. 

   Keep the shelter manure-free for best results.

   Use a manure fork to clean out animal dung from the shed at least twice weekly. This will prevent mud from forming on top of the wood shavings.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean out and replace the wood shavings weekly or more, depending on the number of animals that use the run-in shed.

• Place a water barrel at the end of the gutter downspout to collect fresh water.

References

• University of Massachusetts Extension: Mud Management for Horse Operations
• Oregon State University Extension: Mud and Manure Management
• Gutters How To: How to Install Rain Gutters

Resources

• BayAreaEquestrianNetwork: Mud, Mud, Mud
• PennStateUniversity: Horse Stable Flooring Materials and Drainage
• CherryHill'sHorsekeeping: Pea Gravel for Pens