Addressing muddy run without roof

[paradisepentacoop]

As a note, my mulch/gravel mix with open center roof has yet to flood at all, despite some downright torrential rain.

Based on family in the area, I assume you have more clay based soils? I would recommend adding gravels for drainage to help with the mud as well as partial roofing. Same as if a road were to be super muddy, the solution is generally to add road base to stabilize it.

 

[Jrod2388]

Other than dirty chickens, is a muddy run a problem? After a heavy rain, I go out there and rake out the mud to try and dry it out as best I can. But otherwise the run is exposed to the elements

 

[paintedChix]

A muddy run can be problematic - promoting illness, flies & bad smell. Fixing the muddy run will end those possibilities & if in a neighborhood also help cement good relationships.

 

[paintedChix]

Hello from Dallas! Our chicken run is currently covered with wooden framing with inset wire panels and when it rains like it does here, we are left with a muddy mess.

You might want to also check for drainage around your coop & run. There are many ways to direct water around them, if necessary. Also, if you decide to roof the run (i would), add extra over hang to keep run off water from entering your run. Water collection would be awesome, too.

Outside of that, we would like to add wood chips to the dirt floor. What’s most available here is coarse pine or cedar mulch/chips or mixed hardwood that is unknown wood type but untreated. Are any of these safe to use? I’ve read conflicting info on wood type, specifically cedar.

Wood chips are great! They will break down. When you see dirt, it gets muddy or there is a scent, you add more. As it breaks down, you will see that it can absorb not only the chicken manure, but water as well. This will keep the run dry even if not solidly roofed such as using a shade cloth. You can also use/mix a variety of other materials that will break down.

Cedar should not be a problem at when used out doors. The oils in it are disapated naturally.