Started using straw bales inside the run last fall and it fixed my mud problem

Last winter my chicken run turned into a total mud pit every time it rained. I tried sand, wood chips, even those rubber mats from Tractor Supply but nothing soaked up the moisture like plain old straw bales. I just set a few bales along the low spots and let the chickens scratch through them. After about a month the bales started breaking down and actually absorbed all the wet mess. The added bonus was the hens loved pecking at the stray seeds that sprouted. I think I spent around $30 for enough bales to cover a 10x12 run area. Has anyone else tried this or do you have a better fix for muddy runs?

2 comments

2 Comments

iris_mason881mo ago

$30 for a 10x12 run?! I just paid $50 for three bales at my local farm supply and they were all half rotten already. Did you get a bulk deal or something? That price sounds like a total steal. I'm honestly a little jealous. My hens would love some sprouting seeds too.

park.adam1mo ago

Pretty sure "run" means square feet, not $30 for a 10x12 foot area.