Muddy Ground
Muddy paddocks, field entry points, riding arenas and feeding areas are a real problem!
The problem is that there are simply areas in an equestrian centre or farm that are more trafficked than others. Such as field entry points, grassed pathways or feeding areas. In times of inclement weather, the areas in question get very muddy providing health worries for horses and headaches for owners.
Muddy Fever
Also known as equine pastern dermatitis. Essentially the condition is the result of disruption to the skin which then allows bacteria into the skin to set up an infection. Disruption of the skin is most commonly due to the maceration (over wetting) of the skin. The lesions that develop can range from scales and crusts on the legs through to painful, thickening and inflammation with large scabs.
You have to keep your farmland in good agricultural and environmental condition (GAEC) as part of Cross Compliance requirements – failure to meet GAEC standards may result in a reduction to your payment. So, what is the answer?
What is the Answer?
EquiGrids have a fantastic range to stop this problem from occurring in the first place in the form of reinforcing the affected areas with permeable, non-slip grids that sit on the grassed area and through which the grass grows naturally. The grids can also reinforce gravel, bark and areas with riding surface/sand.
The E40 and S50 grids can be laid directly on the area which has been levelled and then the grids are filled with a 70:30 mix of organic topsoil and seed.
The most effective method of solving the problem is, of course, to prepare the ground properly first, lay a reinforced drainage layer, lay S50 grids which are the most flexible and forgiving, fill the grids with the same mix and then wait for the grass to grow. This method will ensure that your mud worries will be a thing of the past.
For gravel, bark or riding surface areas we advise a layer of stone to level the area first and assist with drainage, then a membrane, the grids and infill the grids with material of your choice.
S50 Grid
Arrive as 12 grids or 1.33 square metres already locked together so fitting is very swift and simple.
Available in 3 colours: black, green and terracotta.
For areas of heavier traffic we have a stronger 50m grid that can take traffic like your horse boxes or tractors. Meaning you can have access across fields, carparks.. etc without rutting or mud.
As with all of our EquiGrids, they are guaranteed for 20 years, properly tested, backed by years of case studies and made from 100% recycled plastic. The safe and environmental choice versus traditional build methods.
