Land Management Tips for February
Despite winter being the darkest time of year, it can be a really good time to identify problem areas around your yard, as well as in your fields and paddocks. Our Sustainability and Land Management partners, ADAS Equine, explain what you should be looking out for to help with maintenance as we head into spring and improve the condition of your land next winter.
When the weather is wet and cold, we can easily see where the weak spots are, walking around during or after heavy rain helps you identify the flow pathways and where you might need to divert water from key areas or install additional drainage.
- Where is the worst mud?
- Where do the horses like to shelter from the cold wind and churn up the ground?
- Which gateways and gate latches need attention the most?
- How are your fences looking, is there any maintenance needed? a nail in time can save a lot of worry when the ponies are leaning over the boundary to find a tasty treat.
- What jobs do you need to prioritise in the spring?
Making a note, maybe even taking a photograph of the main issues, can be a good way to schedule in some repair and maintenance time. Then as the nights start to lengthen and we feel more like being out and about, we can enjoy the satisfaction of having already got a few of those jobs done – ready for spring.
ADAS Equine advisers can support you in helping improve your land management, whether you manage a one-acre livery field through to a large stud or estate.
Providing practical, reliable advice that can support in aspects such as enhancing soil health, selecting grass management strategies and improving the efficiency of resource use. We aim to develop solutions which improve horse health and welfare, and make land management more sustainable, all while making your life easier day to day.