Summer drought: Practical advice for horse owners and yard managers
Many parts of the UK have not received any significant rainfall for over a month, grass is now very stressed and burning off. ADAS Equine share expert guidance on how best to manage your horses grazing.
Managing muck heaps
Best practice in composting muck heaps is normally to turn and ensure that there is good oxygen flow through the heap to increase rate and quality of decomposition. However, in the high temperatures we have been observing recently, caution needs to be taken as the increased decomposition activity increases the risk of combustion. Regularly check muck heaps and if they are showing signed of overheating be prepared to take action to cool them down.
Providing water for nature
With conditions so dry at present there is less and less water available in the countryside; birds, mammals and insects are all struggling to find water. This increases the risk of them trying to access your horse's water trough and risking drowning. Look to put a board, rope or similar into your trough to help animals escape. You could also look to put down shallow trays of water that are safer for small animals to drink from. A shallow bowl filled with large stones and some water also makes a great water station for insects such as bees and butterflies.
Fly management
One of the reasons why fly numbers increase at this time of year, especially around horses eyes is they are seeking moisture. Providing some addition water sources that flies can access may help to reduce nuisance flies on your horses. Make use of fly masks to protect eyes all the same.
Is it a weed?
In these times of water stress we are able to see which plants in our pastures are thriving. These are likely to be the deeper rooted species that are able to access water at greater depth. Plants such as birdsfoot trefoil and knapweed are doing well at the moment. As long as they are not taking over your pastures these are both good sources of diversity within your sward, and do provide some forage opportunities when grass is otherwise dormant.
Conserving water on the yard
Many parts of the countryside are under a hosepipe ban, because stored water in reservoirs and aquifers is very low. Although, this des not prevent us from using hoses to fill water troughs for livestock we should be conscious of ow we are using water and water happens to it. Reduce the use of the hose for washing horses, instead using a bucket and sponge so that you can manage the water you are using. Can you wash down over grass rather than on the yard? What are you doing with water from water buckets when you refresh? Use that to water grass and trees rather than pour away. Make sure taps and hoses are checked for leaks and repair or replace were needed.
Are you still having to soak hay for a metabolic horse? In these times of water shortage hay soaking is a massive drain on water resources. If you do have to soak make sure that you are making best use of the water that you are using by taking waste water and using it to irrigate fields, or water trees and other plants, don't just pour it down the drain.
Expert advice
Members of British Dressage have the opportunity to appoint the services of ADAS Equine as part of the partnership, that could include face to face advice and site visits, as well as offering remote advice sessions. ADAS Equine can also undertake soil sampling to better understand your land, whilst offering advice to help grass growth and quality. ADAS Equine will also offer training to clubs and groups (online and face to face).
