new floor for runs

[jps]

we have 2 chicken runs that are both just mud bogs now due to all the rain.

i do plan to put tarps up to cover part of each run to try and keep it dry but also i need a new flooring material, mud jsut isnt working.

i have read lots of conflicting reports but wood chip seems like a good option.

either that or gravel, shovelling a ton or two of woodchips seems easier than gravel and it seems a bit more natural somehow but i dont want it to turn into a mud bog again but with a wood chips in it.

anyone have any advice for the way forward please.

wood chips or gravel.

[chris]

woodchips - nicer for the chooks, and when it starts to rot down it's a usable material

[Newtothis]

Wood Chips - not Bark Chips - they can go mouldy.
We use wood chips from a local tree surgeon and just give him a 'drink' for them, so they are almost free. Under cover they stay good for a long time, and the girls love to scratch in them, sometimes down the full 6 inches to the soil below!
I've never used them out in 'all weathers' but I'd think they would rot down quicker and need to be changed more often. Under cover ours lasts easily for a year..
There may be some trees that you have to avoid, there has been some discussion about this in the past, but I'm sure someone with more expertise will be along to advise on that.

David

[Hilary B]

As long as the 'finished level' is ABOVE the surrounding soil, woodchips should be great. If they are in a dip NOTHING will work well.
Drainage is VERY IMPORTANT. The wetness needs somewhere to go to, and it goes DOWNHILL.