Our arena in Utah was enclosed in a big metal building. The riders were encouraged to pick up the poo before leaving the area in consideration of others. That left a HUGH dust problem that prohibited many people from using the indoor arena UNTIL an old cowboy asked why we were taking out all that great organic matter……DUH moment…when broken down by other horses or pulled apart by a tractor, it actually softened the hard clay base, held down the dust, and if broken down quickly, the flies (or smell) were not a problem. I used this idea in my own paddock and LOVED the results. especially when the snow fell. It provided footing and absorbent material to soak up the water as the snow melted. I’m small potatoes compared to your establishment but I hated all that dust and could not even begin to afford sand AND feed my 7 horses. Hope you find a solution to your problem. Enclosed arenas are a blessing on their own aren’t they? Happy Trails!
Thanks, Judith! It’s so interesting because with sand, apparently taking the manure out is essential or it causes dust…at least so I have been told…so confusing…but having an enclosed area is a blessing for sure and I need to remember that when I start whining!! Great to hear from you as always.
Our arena in Utah was enclosed in a big metal building. The riders were encouraged to pick up the poo before leaving the area in consideration of others. That left a HUGH dust problem that prohibited many people from using the indoor arena UNTIL an old cowboy asked why we were taking out all that great organic matter……DUH moment…when broken down by other horses or pulled apart by a tractor, it actually softened the hard clay base, held down the dust, and if broken down quickly, the flies (or smell) were not a problem. I used this idea in my own paddock and LOVED the results. especially when the snow fell. It provided footing and absorbent material to soak up the water as the snow melted. I’m small potatoes compared to your establishment but I hated all that dust and could not even begin to afford sand AND feed my 7 horses. Hope you find a solution to your problem. Enclosed arenas are a blessing on their own aren’t they? Happy Trails!
Thanks, Judith! It’s so interesting because with sand, apparently taking the manure out is essential or it causes dust…at least so I have been told…so confusing…but having an enclosed area is a blessing for sure and I need to remember that when I start whining!! Great to hear from you as always.