???

[CLAUDIA]

I was wondering if anyone knows what sort of grounds are suitable for horses. What I mean to say is...I live in the eastern US, and the soil at my home is mostly clay. I desperately want to keep my horses at home, but I don't know if I would need to completely change the soil type ($$$!). I have had many different suggestions on this problem, but none of them hit exactly where I need them to.
The problem is that the ground is moist most of the time, except in extremely dry times. I'm afraid that if I move my horses to my home then the ground will become muddy and irrepairable. Any suggestions on how to avoid this? Also, we tend to have Tall Fescue growing everywhere, which I've heard nasty things about (endophyte fungus?) Further, does anyone know what kind of plant life is dangerous to horses? One more thing, mosquitos can be a problem for horses, if I'm not mistaken, which causes me even more concern since mosquitos love moisture. I'm just not sure what to do. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Jo]

Sadly, my farming father-in-law tells me that wet ground, especially clay soild, is not so good for horses. Apparently, they can pull ligaments if their feet get too entrenched in a boggy part. To make matters worse, mosquitoes can cause real problems. I've seen a horse rip herself to shreds through an allergic reaction to bites. Is there any way you can drain the land?

[CLAUDIA]

Draining the land is an option. After all, we have French drains all over the place already. I just didn't want to have to tear everything up again. The soil is excellent since we live in the river basin, but the clay underneath doesn't allow for the necessary drainage. Thank you so much for the reply. I don't know of any other way to control the mosquitos without draining the land. The problem area is about two and a half acres, which just happens to be the flattest section of our property. I was thinking of keeping the horses stabled most of the time, since they'll be getting plenty of work during the day in the arena area. Is this an advisable alternative to draining the land?

[KB]

You might want to try contacting your local agricultural dept. I just attended a seminar sponsored by my mine and was suprised at what they are willing to help on. The seminar was about the clean water act that is in the works in my area and they wanted to get the word out about it. They will come and test your soil, tell you what would be the best way to maintain it, and will have suggestions about drainage etc. They may even be able to subsidize ($$$) your effort depending on your situation and if it benefits one of their programs. Worth a try at least.

[This message has been edited by KB (edited 17 May 1999).]