Posted on by AK

Tips to Keeping Run (Ground) Dry

🐔 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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! 🐓💧