1. Improve Drainage Before You Build
If the area already holds moisture, addressing drainage first will save you a ton of hassle later.
Slightly Elevate the Coop & Run
- If possible, raise the entire coop and run by adding a gravel base (4-6 inches deep).
- This helps water drain away instead of pooling inside the run.
Dig a French Drain (For Persistent Wet Areas)
- If water naturally collects, dig a shallow trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe to redirect water away from the run.
- Cover it with more gravel or soil to blend in.
Add a Sand or Gravel Layer Under the Run
- Before adding bedding, lay down 2-4 inches of coarse sand or pea gravel to help with drainage.
2. Use the Right Bedding for Dry Ground
The best moisture-wicking bedding depends on your climate and preference.
Coarse Sand (Best Overall for Drainage & Cleanliness)
- Doesn’t hold moisture like dirt or straw.
- Drains quickly and is easy to clean with a rake.
- Chickens love to dust bathe in it.
Gravel Base + Organic Bedding (For Heavier Rains)
- 1-2 inches of gravel under bedding helps prevent mud.
- On top, use pine shavings, chopped straw, or hemp bedding (all dry quickly).
Deep Litter Method (For Cold or Wet Climates)
- Instead of frequent cleaning, let bedding build up over time (6-12 inches deep).
- Microbial action breaks down waste and generates warmth.
- Works best with pine shavings, straw, or hemp bedding.
3. Cover & Divert Water from the Run
Even with shade, rain can make things muddy unless you manage it well.
Waterproof Roofing or Tarp
- If the run has a cover, make sure it’s pitched so rain runs off.
- Use corrugated plastic or metal roofing for the best long-term protection.
Gutters & Rain Barrels
- If the coop has a roof, add a gutter system to catch rainwater.
- Direct it away from the run or collect it for watering plants.
Extend the Roof Beyond the Run Edges
- Overhangs prevent rain from dripping inside the run and soaking the ground.
4. Keep Water Sources From Creating Mud
Sometimes, the waterer itself is the problem!
Use Nipple or Cup Waterers Instead of Open Bowls
- This prevents water from spilling and making a muddy mess.
- Mount it off the ground to avoid splashing.
Place Waterers on a Raised Platform
- Use bricks, pavers, or a wooden pallet to keep them off the wet ground.
Create a “Dry Zone” With Gravel or Sand
- Around the waterer, place a small ring of sand, gravel, or stone pavers to absorb spills.
5. Rotate & Aerate the Run to Keep It Fresh
If your run is fixed, moisture buildup is inevitable—so maintenance is key.
Rake & Turn the Bedding Weekly
- Stirring bedding helps it dry faster and prevents compaction.
Move the Run Occasionally (If Possible)
- If you can, let an area rest while another section is used.
Add Ventilation to the Coop & Run
- Even in shade, extra airflow will help bedding dry faster.
What’s the Best Setup for Your Space?
If your run is completely fixed, I’d recommend: A slightly raised, well-drained gravel base Coarse sand + deep litter bedding A sloped roof with gutters to redirect rain A raised waterer to prevent spills
Layering the Ground in the Main Run:
- Pea Gravel (Base Layer)
- Depth: 2-4 inches
- This acts as the drainage layer. The gravel allows any excess moisture to flow through and keeps the ground from getting waterlogged.
- It also helps elevate the bedding, so your chickens aren’t walking directly on damp soil.
- Coarse Sand (Middle Layer)
- Depth: 2-4 inches
- Sand is excellent for drainage and will help the bedding dry out more quickly, especially in wet or rainy conditions. It also helps keep the ground from becoming muddy.
- Chickens love to dust bathe in sand, so it’s a great addition for both moisture control and chicken enrichment.
- Pine Shavings (Top Layer)
- Depth: 2-4 inches (adjust based on how often you clean)
- Pine shavings absorb moisture and odors, and they’re soft for your chickens’ feet.
- This layer will also serve as a comfortable bedding for your chickens, keeping them dry and cozy.
Why This Works:
- Pea gravel creates good drainage so moisture doesn’t build up.
- Sand wicks away moisture and makes the area more comfortable for chickens to scratch and dust bathe in.
- Pine shavings soak up any remaining moisture, while also providing bedding for comfort and hygiene.
This should keep things dry, clean, and comfortable the girls, even during rainy seasons.
Weekly Maintenance:
- Rake the Bedding
- Fluff up the pine shavings and sand to help them dry out and aerate the bedding.
- This will also help prevent it from becoming compacted and allow moisture to escape.
- Check for Wet Spots
- If any areas seem to be holding water, you can add more gravel or sand to improve drainage in those spots.
- Make sure there are no puddles forming, as standing water can lead to bacteria or mold growth.
- Clean Out the Waterers
- If you’re using open water bowls, rinse them weekly to prevent algae growth and keep them clean.
- Nipple or cup waterers are a great option to reduce spills and prevent dampness.
Monthly Maintenance:
- Turn Over the Bedding
- Stir up the bedding in the run to keep it from becoming too compacted.
- This helps air circulate, which speeds up the drying process and keeps the area fresher.
- Top Off Bedding Layers
- If the bedding has settled, add a fresh layer of pine shavings to ensure your chickens have a clean, soft surface to walk on.
- Check for Gaps in the Hardware Cloth
- Inspect the run’s hardware cloth for any weak spots or potential openings that could allow predators to squeeze through.
- Check the Roof/Canopy
- If your run has a tarp or roof, make sure it’s still intact and that no rainwater is pooling on top.
Seasonal Maintenance:
- Spring Cleaning (After Winter)
- This is a great time to do a more thorough cleaning of the entire run and coop.
- Deep clean the floor by removing old bedding and replenishing with fresh material.
- Scrub the waterers and feeders, and inspect the coop for any wear and tear from the weather.
- Winter Prep
- Before cold weather hits, make sure your run’s roof is waterproof and all the bedding layers are in good shape.
- You may want to add more insulation or move the waterer to an area that’s more protected from freezing.
Occasional Maintenance:
- Add More Gravel or Sand
- If you notice any spots that have become too soggy, add gravel or sand to improve drainage and help dry out the ground.
- Gravel can be added underneath the sand layer if needed, or you can top off the sand layer to keep it dry and clean.
- Check for Pest Activity
- If you’re in a humid area, check the bedding for signs of mold or fungus.
- If you notice pests or smell mildew, you may need to replace some of the bedding and improve ventilation.
Bonus Tips:
- Rotating or Moving Your Run: If you’re able to move the run occasionally, it can help prevent wear on the ground and provide your girls with fresh areas to explore.
- Use a Compost Pile: Over time, bedding will break down, so consider starting a compost pile for the old material. Chickens love to help turn the compost if it’s near the run!
- Watch for Scratching: Chickens are great at scratching to find bugs and worms, but they can also create uneven ground. If this becomes a problem, you can add more bedding and top it off every couple of weeks.
These simple but consistent steps should help maintain a dry, healthy, and happy environment for your flock year-round! 
