HomeMy WebLinkAboutPacket 08-25-08
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DITCH ROAD STABLES #08060007 SU & #08060019 V:
UPDATE SINCE JULY 28TH BZA MEETING
PAGE 1
EMAIL DATED
PAGES 2-3
COMMITMENTS FOR 13403 DITCH ROAD STABLE
As requested at last month's BZA meeting
PAGE 4
"EXHIBIT A": Revised survey map showing new proposed configuration of arena and riding stable layout
Design changes were made to accommodate the Wilhelms' (our adjoining neighbor to the North) concerns
regarding a Pasture or parking lot with manure dumpster being in close proximity to their home. The "U-shaped"
barn design allows parking, horse trailers, & dumpster to be visually shielded from the north, east, & south
property lines, and provide a setback of at least 200 ft from existing homes
PAGE 5
AERIAL VIEW OF "EXHIBIT An & ADJOINING PROPERTIES
Allows newly proposed configuration of arena and riding stable layout to be seen in relation to the Wihelms' .
existing home.
1. Note that their pool runs parallel with the beginning of our backyard fence line which is a 207 ft setback to
the actual arena and riding stable in addition to the distance of the Wilhelm home to our backyard fence
line
2. Also note that the area for parking, horse trailers, & dumpster is within the .U" thereby shielding the items
from view, and
3. That there are also trees along our north fence line as well as the Wilhelms' pool area which provide
additional visual barriers
PAGE 6
AERIAL MAP OF INDOOR ARENAS AND/OR RIDING STABLES IN THE IMMEDIATE AREA
Shows that similar uses currently exist on simarilarly-sized farce's in the neighborhood
(Ditch Rd, W. 13161St, Six Points Rd. 136\ St)
PAGE 7
TRAFFIC INFORMATION
1. FREQU ENCY OF TRAFFIC RELATIVE TO HAVING HORSES BOARDED
· Note that the frequencies hold true whether to or 20 horses are boarded
2. CITY OF CARMEL TRAFFIC COUNT
· Comparison shows impact to the neighborhood would be minimal
PAGES 8- 1 1
MINUTES FROM AUGUST 10TH MEETING OF OWNER, CONTRACT BUYER, WILHELMS, J. BOJRAB
· Purpose of meeting was to. make a "good faith" effort to identify concerns and try to reach a mutual
resolution through education and concern discussion
Minutes were sent to all parties via email on 8/11/08 and as of the 8/15/08 Board packet submission date
there has been no comment/correction received from either party who voiced objections during the July
2008 BZA pubic hearing
PAG~ 12-13
LETTER DATED AUGUST 15, 2008 TO MS. BARTON-HOLMES AND BOARD MEMBERS
This letter supplements our-contract buyer's previous letter dated 7/23/08, and addresses specific concerns which
were raised at July's BZA meeting.
PAGES 14-15
LETTER DATED AUGUST 23, 2008T0 MS. BARTON-HOLMES AND BOARD MEMBERS
This response letter was emailed the day after receipt of the Wilhelms' letter dated 7/22/08, but unfortunately the
July Board packet had already been mailed & therefore was not seen by the Board until the night of the meeting.
It is being provided here again for reference.
PAGE 16
EQUINE VETERINARIAN RESUME OF CONTRACT BUYER
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
PAGES 1 7A & 178
1. Equine Veterinarian letters of support
a. Bruce McDavitt, DVM
8. Terry Brandenburg, DVM
PAGES 18-24
2. Horse Stable Manure Management Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences .
This specifically addresses odor control; .f1ybreeding, & environmental i,mpact in relation to horse facilities.
· Page 19 of oacket "For suburban setting, overcoming potential problems includes overcoming perceptions and
misconceptions about the nuisance and pollution potential of horse facilities. Most people enjoy horses, yet
neighbors can be more concerned that horses are manure-generating, fly and edor machines... Fortunately
careful management and attention to d~tail can overcome potential problems of intensive horse operations...
Proper manure management practices can virtually eliminate farm pests and odors". Manure management
plans have been outlined in our Commitments
· Table 30n o. 23 of Dacket: lists minimum. separation distances from property line & residences recommended'
for manure handling activities which we have incorporated into our Commitments
PAGES 25-26
3. Maximizing the Value of Pasture for Horses. PurdueUliiversity Cooperative Extension
This discusses the difference between using p~stur~ acreage asa major feed source, versus for exercise
purposes only as in our case, noting that this need can be met on relativelvsmall. welJ,.drained lots. Our
Commitments state that horses will be out on pasture In a systematic rotation schedule not to exceed 3
horses/acre of pasture at anyone time.
PAGES 27-29
4. Introduction to Horse Management. Purdue University Cooperative Extension
This touches on waste removal & exercise recommendations for stalled horses
e> Paqe 28: "Horses kept, or fed, inside should have their stall cleaned once a day" & "have it removed by a local
waste management company" which we have incorporated into our Commitments
. Page 29: Discusses methods for stalled horses to be exercised and/or turned OUlt which has been
addressed in our Commitments
PAGES 30-31
5. "How many horses should be housed on acre of land?"! S1. Petersburg Times .
. The article mentions that the Council members turned down (3-2) a preperty owner's request to board 40 horses
on 3.45 acres, but said she could have 22 horses. As a result of this case, Council asked staff members to come
up with the ideal number of horses per acre, which they"did after consuiting with the city's Equestrian
Commission... 8 horses/acre.
e> The.article also notes that an author of 25 books on horse training and horse care (including Horse-keeping on a
small Acreage) said that "with ideal management, eight horses per acre could work" noting that "horses that ~re
stabled. exercised. fed hay and Qrain. can live in a much smaller area".
.. This author also pointed out that whether or not a horse is. expected ~o live Off the land with no exlr8 feed or hay
needs to be considered when determining horses/a,cre. This supports the poi,[lt that our buyer,.being an equine
veterinarian and accomplished equestrian herself, made at the BZA & follow-up' meeting with the involved parties
In conclusion, we respectively submit that:
1. Recreational special use for a riding stable in a S.1 Residential Zoning District is permitted under
Carmel's Zoning Ordinance according to Appendix A: Schedule of Uses, and this is what we are
requesting in our #08060007 SU & #08060019 V applications.
2. The Ordinance clearly states in its Definitions that a riding stable can receive renumeration. We are not
asking for our property to be rezoned as Business, only to be able to provide boarding and riding lessons
as permitted through approval of a Recreational Special Use of a Riding Stable on our property.
3. All Findings of Fact for both the Special Use & Development Standards Variance have been met.
4. Accommodations were subsequently made in the design of the arena/riding stable, and Commitments
have been drafted, to address the following concerns/objections raised at July's BZA public hearing
a. Proximity of location of the arena and riding stable to existing homes
b. Manure ~andling, storage, & disposal and associated flies
c. Frequency of Traffic generated by the riding stable
d~ # of horses/acre
5. As the main objection seems to be too many horses/acre and a perceived odor andlor fly problem
associated with a dum pster for 20 horses, we would also offer the fQIIQwing:
a. "Kingsborough" & "Brookstone Park" are located directly across the stree~. and "The Meadows at
Saddle Creek" directly behind Rinehart Stables which board 40+ horses on 10 acres. All are
newer subdivisions.
b. ~~Treesdale" Is a brand new gated.community being built next door to Lucky Farms, which also _
boards 40+ horses on 10 acres.
c. Developers would not be placing new subdivisions and gated communities next door to these-
riding stables if there were indeed an offensive odor and/or fly problem, or if the riding stable
would negatively affect the property values.
6. As requested at last month's alA meeting, a good faith effort has been made on our part to work through
the issues with the parties voicing objections, as evidenced by the Minutes from our .August 10th meeting
and subsequent follow.up via emall. As of the time of this Board packet submission, we have not
received any comment/correction from either party who voiced objections during the July 2008 aZA
pubic hearing.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter,
Karen & Kevin Hammeran
From: khammeran@aol~com
To: jbojrab@iquest.net; lindabluebird@aol.com; bentleysdad@aol.com
Cc: kevin.hammeran@mch.com; lesliedvm@gmail.com; r1st8pro@aol.com;. mslade@plunkettcooney.com
Subject: Fwd: DITCH RD STABLE: COMMITMENT LETTER BASED ON 8-10-08 MEETING DISCUSSION
Date: Thu, 14 Aug 20084:39 pm
Attachments: U-ShapeSurveyMap.jpg (210K), BZAcommltment2-1[1]a.pdf (176K), 081 Ofollowup.doc (51 K)
llExhibit All referenced in the Commitment is a separate document which I forgot to
attach... sorry about that
-----Original Message~-~--
From: khammeran@aol.com
" To: iboirab@iauestnet; lindabluebird@aol.com; bentleysdad@aol.com
Cc: kevin.hammeran@mch.com;' lesliedvm@gmail.com; rlstBpro@aoLcom; mslade@plunkettcoonev.com
Sent: Thu, 14 Aug .2008 4:27 pm .
Subject: DITCH RD STABLE: COMMITMENT LETTER BASED ON 8-10-08 MEETING DISCUSSION
Based on the issues discussed and feedback received at our 8-10-08 meeting, our contract
buyer, LeslieAhluwalia, has put together a written Commitment as suggested by the BZA
members at the July meeting, in an effort to address and hopefully satisfy your initial
objections raised in relation to the #08060007 SU & #08060019 V appl ications.
We feel that the Commitments, along with the "Frequency of Traffic Generated"
information which was previous provided on 8-13-08, and the published literature from Penn
State & Purdue distributed at our meeting, all demonstrate that every effort has been made
on our part to acknowledge and accommodate the concerns raised regarding:
. Proximity of location of the arena and riding stable to existing homes
(t Manure handling, storage, & disposal a"nd associated flies
. Frequency of Traffic generated by the riding stable
· # of horses/acre
Please advise as to whether or not the above Commitments would resolve your objections to
BZA approval. We would also be open to reviewing any specific additions or revisions to the
Commitment which you feel might lead to a mutual resolution prior to the BZA meeting.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon,
Karen Hammeran
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COMMITMENTS FOR 13403 DITCH ROAD 5T ABLE
1_ Maintenance of Current Barriers:
The existing tree line on the west (facing and parallel to Ditch ~oad), north, & south property lines will
remain undisturbed except as noted herein to continue the existing natural visual barrier to Ditch Road
and adjacent landowners. The western natural barrier parallel to Ditch Road is a supplement to any
existing barriers, residence, and improvements, provided and maintained by the western adjacent
landowner occupying approximately 322 feet of road frontage located between Ditch Road and 13403
Ditch Road. Notable exceptions include removal or maintenance of trees due to toxicity to animals, _
governmental regulation, storm damage, safety concerns, or topographical reasons.
2_ Arena and Riding Stable Location and Configuration:
A "U-shaped" design will be used for the arena and riding stable improvements (as depicted in this
paragraph), to promote and allow the following provisions:
A. The parking, horse trailers, dumpster, and exterior lighting locations within the .U.
shaped courtyard creates a visual, audio, and olfaction shield from the north, east, &
south property lines in addition to the 322 foot tree line and adjacent property frontage
barriers to Ditch Road; and
" ,,~t,;
B. The .ocation of the- arena and riding stable along the East property and fence line
(See Exhibit A) provides a setback of at least 200 feet from the 13403 Ditch Road
residence to accommodate concerns about proximity to neighbor's existing home to
the North that sets back eighty feet from the old proposed parking lot (according to
Wilhelm July 22, 2008 letter) and in excess of 280 feet from the northwest corner of
the new arena and riding stable location.
3. Recreation Access and Lessons:
Access time for boarders to visit or transport horses will be limited to 8arn-8pm. The exceptions will
include medical and veterinary emergencies whether treatment is needed onsite or requires
transportation to another facility for medical care. The number of horse trailers parked at anyone time
will be a maxim-urn of four (4) trailers with parking located and shielded along a side of the arena and
riding stable building.. The start time for riding lessons would be no earlier than-Sam and the end time
would be no. later than 8pm. Lessons are traditionally 1 hour in length. The majority of les$ons will be
private due to the nature of this recreation activity and dressage. Any group lessons, if given, will not
exceed 5 people. No competitions will be held onsite. If the applicant's proposed buyer, Leslie
Ahluwalia, completes the purchase of 13403 Ditch Road, her current off~site veterinarian employment
will also limit the scheduling of lessons.
~
4., Boardina Activitv:
The number of horses being boardedonsite will be limited to 20. Horses will be out on pasture in a
systematic rotation schedule not to exceed 3 horses per acre of pasture at anyone time. This will be
done to keep pastureland in good condition. Pasture .will be used as an exercise lot. arid not as the
major feed source in order to maintain the h~alth of the horses and the condition of the pasture. The
indoor arena will also be used for exercise and for turnout during inclement weather. Anticipated overlap
of boarder activity is 2-3 borders given the:
A. Primary occupation, family, and education time of the boarders and students off site; and
B. The border and lesson hours of the riding stable are impacted by the property owner's family time
and off~site employment; and
C. If the applicant's proposed buyer, Leslie Ahluwalia, completes the purchase of 13403 Ditch Road,
her current off-site veterinarian employment will also limit the schedUling of lessons.
5. Safety and Health Maintenance:
A. As a recreational special use for a residential area (as defined by Carmel Zoning Ordinance
for S-1 Residential Zoning District), all h~althand safety concerns consistent with applicable
governmental regulations and codes, and equine border care will be maintained for the arena
and riding stable.
B. If applicant's. proposed buyer, LeslieAhluwalia,completes the purchase of 13403 Ditch Road,
a veterinary clinic or hospital will not be maintained on the 13403 Ditch Road premises.
C. Stalls will be cleaned daily. Stall waste will be stored in one
commercial grade waste dumpster arid removed from the site by a
local waste management company weekly i The dumpster mL!st be
accessible by the waste removal company. Visual and olfaction
screening of the dumpster will be done' with a 5-6ft stockade fence,
and the U-shaped arena and riding stabie itself will also serve as an
additional visual and olfaction screen of the dumpster from' the
. adjoining properties. The dumpster will also be placed with a
minimum separation distance of 100ft from property lines & 200ft from existing neighboring
homes.
D. Exterior lighting will be only necessary for safety and/or maintenance c:onsis~ent with
applicable governmental regulations ari(j codes. Since daylight hours providesufficieht light
during access and lesson time, exterior lighting will not be needed on any commercial scale:
exterior lighting will be consistent with the residential character of the neighb0fhoodand the
recreational safety needs of borders or students during' the stated access and/or lesson
hours.
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AERIAL VIEW OF "EXHIBIT A'l & ADJOINING PROPERTIES
-House 1000+ ft from Ditch Road
-Heavy tree line to W of house
-Mature trees along N & S property lines
-Existing arenas/rings & riding stables
appear in yellow
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[I AERIAL MAP OF INDOOR ARENAS AND/OR RIDING STABLES IN THE IMMEDIATE AREA II
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* Proposed site for indoor arena/riding stable
o Existing indoor arena/riding stable
Existing riding stable
o Existing barn
to
FOlLOW..UP TO AUGUST 10, 2008 MEETING
The following acllditional information is being provided as discussed at our meeting on 8..10..08.
fRIEOUBKY OFTRAFFBC RELATIVE TO HAVING 20 HORSES ONSIlE
IQIMI~t fiJl~JIO!~
,,~,,',i"i""';';:::~;.';::i,n,'ff"'~-';
Note: hours limited to 8am-8pm
Manure Management
(dumpster pick..up by waste management company) f /week
Grain Delivery* 1/montlB
Shavi..g DeUvery* (beelldling) t/month
Hay Delivery'" 3 or 4times/year
Lessons (by owner) 2..3 days/weelll
# Boarders ensite 2..3 atao, given time
Note: This is naturally restrided as Hly 2..3 horses
can safely be in an ar~na simultaneously
Clients transporting horses Only appro:. 10'0 of horse owners is serious show
competitors, which would equate to:
1..2 horses being transported to
f..2 showspell' mo~th between JlIIlDe..Od
HrUne shows all'e traditionally lIelell on weekends.
However t the l1II,jority of horse owners are adult
amateurs who either don't compete or do so Uyear
in the summer.
"'The building will provide adequate. storage of these items
As you can seet the anticipated frequency of traffic would be negligible.
It shollllld also be llIIoted that the above frequencies would hold trlllle eyelD if the UlIl1!llllber of horses were 01ll6y 10.
CITY Of CARMIEL TRAFFIC COUNTS*
LOeA flON AVERAGIEDAllY TOTAL
Ditch Hell between 131.t if: 1 36th 1,921 (Jan 2(06)
(Location of OUD' drive it eastentrallceto Estates of West Clay)
131't betWeen Ditch & 'D' owne 5,076 (Nov2oo5)
(Location of south entrance to Estates of West (lay)
* Information provided by David Little.ohD, Alternative Transportation Coordina.tor
NOTIE: Comparison of tb~ frequency of traffic tDuat would be g~ne~ated 1>>, adding a riding stable-.agalnst
existing traffic counts by the City of Carmel shows that the impact to the neighbomoodwould be minimal.
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Minutes were sent to all parties in attendance via email on 8/11/08 at 9: 14pmrequesting additions/revisions by the
morning of 8/13/08 as all parties agreed that it would be best_to try to address/resolve as many issues as possible for
inclusion in the upcoming Board packet.
The yellow highlighted areas incorporate corrections that have been received-to-date as of 8/14/08 at 11 :30am.
No additional corrections have been received as ofthe Board packet submission deadline of 12 Noon on 8/15/08..
SU BJECT:
DATE:
LOCATION:
PRESENT:
13403 DITCH ROAD STABLES (#08060007 SU, #08060019 V)
August 10,2008 12-1 :30 PM
13403 Ditch Road
Karen Hammeran, owner
Leslie Ahluwalia, contract buyer
Bill & Linda Wilhelm, 13505 Ditch Rd (adjoining neighbor to the north)
Jo Bojrab, HOA, Estates of Clay-West
All in attendance signed-in and provided email address so that minutes could be distributed for correction/approval.
Karen distributed packet for discussion:
· . Discussion Points
· Revised Survey Map showing newly configured arena/riding stable layout
· Aerial Map showing original configuration
· Published literature addressing concerns raised at BlA meeting
Horse Stable Manure Management. Penn 'State University College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperatie
Extension
Maximizing the Value of Pasture for Horses. Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service
Introduction to Horse Management. Purdue University Cooperative ExtE3nsion Service
Karen told group that the compiled information in the packet represents her understandi,ng of the current issues & some
pQssible,solutionsfordiscu$sion. Purpose of the meeting is to make a "good faith" effort to identify concerns &.try to
resolve mutually. All agreed. Published literature was also provided to help address common concerns/mis~nceptions
held by the average "lay person" regarding hbrse management.
DISCUSSION POINTS
Before going over the Discussion Points, Jo requested clarification regarding the .Special Use" variance. She said that it
was her understandingthat it was for "business use" of the 'property; and the Wilhelms added that that was their
understanding as well. Leslie reassured everyone that she would-not be <)perating a business onsite, strictly providing
boarding and riding lessons. Jo also asked why we needed to seek zoning board approval since there are existing
arenas and stables that board and give lessons in the immediate area. Karen expiained that When they bought their
property (prior to annexation into the City of Car me I) I the only requirement to having horses was that you had a minimum
of 5 acres. Facilities existing at the time of annexation were grandfathered. Karen showed them AppendixA SChedule
of Uses from the City of Carmel Zoning Ordinance. Riding Stable falls under "recreational" type of use and as we are a
S-1 residential zoning district,. the table indicates "SU" (Special Use application required), Karen then showed them the
definition of a "riding stable" per the City of Garmel Zoning Ordinance...
"Any stable for the housing of horses which is operated for renumeration, hire, sale, or stabling; or any stable
with the capacity'ofmore than four (~) horses which is not related to the ordinary operation of a Farm, whether
or not such stable is operated for renumeration, hire, sale, orstablfng." .. .
g
51 Karen also pointed out on Appendix A that a Veterinary Hospital, for example, was considered a "Retail & Service Use"
52 which is prohibited in S~ 1 residential zoning districts. This was q concern the Wilhelm's had raised previously being that
53 the contact buyer is a veterinarian. .
54
55 Proximity to neiohbors to. the North
56 Karen explained that Leslie had changed the design of the arenalri~llng stable configuration to accommodate the
57 Wilhelms' concern regarding a pasture or parking lot with manure dumpster being in close proximity to their home. The
58 "U -shaped;' bam design allows parking and dumpster to be placed in between the riding stables thereby providing a
59 setback of 207 ft from their home and 100.ft from the NE comer adjoining property fence lines. The buildings
60 themselves will.also serve as a visual barrier for adjoining properties.
61
62
63
64 We then went over the revised survey map showing this newly configured arena/riding stable layout. The following items
65 were pointed out on the survey map and ev.eryone understood the revised layout as presented
66 0 riding stable was split in half to create "U-shape"
67 0 length of structure along north property line is now 152 ft. VS. 200 ft & parking has been relocated to
68 within the "U" thereby creating a 207 ft setback from west end of backyard fence
69 0 dumpster location is indicated by the >t1r1I which is in the NE corner of the ~U"
70 0 arena/riding st~ble are set back 152 ft from the Wilhelm's east end of backyard fence line
71 0 arena/riding stable are set back 25ft from both the the north & east property lines
. 72 0 driveway to arena/stable would be setback 60 ft from north property line
73
74
75
76 . We then went outside to visualize the layout on the actual site. All comers of the arena and riding stable were staked in
77 advance of the . meeting. We started with the driveway marker and then walked all comers of the layout. The following
78 questions were raised and addressed:
79
80 0 Leslie stated that it is her intention that the driveway to the arenalriding stable would be asphalt to assure
81 access to the site
82 0 Leslie stated that the north fence would stay the same as there will be no pasture on the north side of the
83 driveway
84 0 Jo stated that the HOA was not concerned with the visuallspecific location aspect of the project as long as the
85 tree line to the west remains, which provides a natural visual barrier from Ditch Road.
86 0 Leslie stated that the trees along the property lines would remain. Existing trees that fall within the pasture
87 space will have wood fencing placed around them
88 0 It was noted that the arf;lna was longer than originally proposed (200 vs 144 ft), This was to accommodate a "U-
89 shaped" design which allows the dumpster, horse trailer, and parking area .to be confined between the two
90 halves of the riding stable thereby providing a visual barrier from all adjoining property lines. Width between the
91 two halves of the riding stable needs to be adequate to allow dumpster access by waste removal company.
92 0 We stood in the area marked off for parking and the dumpster, and it was noted that the Wilhelm's house could
93 not be seen as the trees along the north fence line provide a visual barrier.
94 0 It was noted that one half of the riding stable was wider than the other (72 vs 36 ft). Leslie explained that this
95 was due to splitting the riding stable in half (10 stalls in each hal~ to accommodate a "U-shape" design, and as a
96 result the need to duplicate key areas such as tack, feed, wash stall, etc.
97 0 Concern was raised as to whether Leslie would be able to properly manage 20 horses by herself. Leslie said
98 that her mother, who is experienced in running stables, will be living with them on-site as well and that she is
99 experienced in managing othei stables and would be managing t16 stable. Leslie said L~at it takes 15 minutQs
100 to clean a horse stall. Hired help.will be used as, netessary.
101 0 Leslie said that exterior lighting will be confined to the parking area which is inside the "U"
9
102 0 Leslie said that the pasture area would be located to the south of the arena/riding stable
103 0 Jo and the Wilhelms expressed concerns about there being enough acreage for pasture. Leslie assured them 0
104 that it would be adequate space for turnout. Pasture would be for exercise. only. not nutrition. Horses would be
105 out on pasture in small numbers and on a rotating schedule to keep pastureland in good condition. Leslie also
106 noted that for the safety of the horse, weather conditions often prohibit turnout outdoors. This is particularly true
107 during the winter months. As such, the indoor arena will also be used for turnout lesliealso gave various
108 examples of horses/acre: 2 stables in immediate area (Reinhardt Farms & LuckY Farms) that have 4;5
109 horses/acre; Los Angeles Equestrian Center 6-7 horses/acre; St. Pet~rsburg FLallows '8 horses/acre; and the
110 carriage horses in dOwntown Indy and th.e Indiana Race Tracks have no turnout.
111 0 Leslie said that only one dumpster would be needed on site and that it would be located in the parking area.
112 Leslie also said that there are 3 local stables that haVe 40+ horses and they all use one dumpster that is
113 . collected weekly.
114 There being no more questions regarding the physical site, we then recapped everyone's position:
115 0 The Wilhelms expressed appreciation for the improvements Leslie had made to the. layout. They were surprised
116 that the layout was bigger than originally proposed, but understood why going to a "U.;shaped" configuration
117 changed the dimensions. This resolved their initial concern relative to the clpse proximity of the physical
118 looation originally laid out on the survey rnap for parking. dumpster, & lighting in relation to their home. The
119 Wilhelms expressed a willingness to. get educated further about the pasture issue? but based on talking to
120 neighbors who have harses, they are still veryconcemed about boarding 20 horses on e acres, and also. worried
121 that the amount of manure generated by 20 horses will present an odor and fly problem, Their issue is not with
122 having horses and a riding stable on the property I but with the size & scope.
123 0 Jo again stated that the HOA did not haVe a visuai issue, They do share the same concern as the Wilhelms
124 relative to the nUmber of horses. They als0 have a concern abo.ut additianal traffic that would be generated by
125 having 20 horses boarded onsite. Jo also felt that Leslie's credentials were more of a negative thana positive
126 because of the business aspect.
127 0 There were also. concerns expressed that since LesliE! is an accomplished Grand Prix competitor and instructor,
128 she may opt to hold competitions onsite sometime in the future. Leslie said that the property was not large
129 enaugh to. support competitions, and that there would be absolutely none held onsite.
130 0 Leslie also explained that building a quality indoor riding arena and stable is a substantial investment. As such,
131 limiting the number of .horses to less. than 20 would not be economically feasible, and as the cantract buyers,
132 they Wauld not proceed with the purchase. .
133 0 Karen noted that the number of horses seems to be the major issue. to be resalv~ and asked Jo and the
134 Wilhelms what could specifically be done to alleviate their concerns. Manure and traffic in & out were i(jentified
13 5 .as the key areas to. be addressed.
136 0 Leslie said that there was probably nothing she could add at this point to what has already been
137 discussed that would .change their minds about the manure, and therefore ~ncouraged them to visit
138 either or both of the local stables with 40+ hors.es to check out the dumpster situation for themselves.
. 139 0 In terms of the traffic in & out, Leslie will puttogether the frequency of traffic relative to having 20 horses
140 onsite requiring...
141 III Manure removal
142 · Grain delivery
143 · Shaving delivery
144 · Hay delivery
145 · Lessons
146 · . # of boardersonsite at any given time
147 · Clients transporting horses
148
149 Manure Manaaement
150 0 Horse stalls will be cleaned daily
151 0 Dumpster'will be screened usi,[l9 either 5-6 ft sto~kade fence and/or landscaping
152 0 DumpsterlDumpster contents will be remaved from the site by a local waste managemen1 company once/week
/0
- .
153 0 Concern was raised regarding what time of day the waste management company would be getting the
154 dumpster. Leslie said that she would specify in the contract that they must pick up during regular operating
155 hours
156 0 Manure management issues are also discussed in the previous section
.l57
158 BoardinQ & RidinQ Lessons
159 0 Hours of operation will be limited to 8am.8pm
160 0 Exterior lighting will only be on as necessary for the safety of clients and/or maintenance. It was noted that
161 much of the year, daylight hours provide sufficient light and exterior lighting will not even be needed
162 0 Riding lessons are traditionally 1 hour in length. The majority of lessons will be private due to the nature of
163 dressage. Any group lessons, if given, will not exceed 5 people and they would be very infrequent.
164 0 No competitions would be held onsite
. 165 0 The number of horse trailers on.site would ,be limited to 4 and with the above.mentioned U-design would be
166 concealed from view
167 0 Leslie said that she did not anticipate having more than 2.3 boardersonsite at any given time. This is limited by
168 the number of horses that can safely be in the indoor arena at the same time.
169 0 Horses will be stalled. Horses will be exercised using the indoor arena, and by putting out on pasture in low
170 numbers at one time using a rotation schedule. As previously mentioned, this will assure that pastureland is
171 kept in good condition. Again, pasture is just being used as an exercise lot, not as a major feeq source, and as
172 such does not require a specific acreage ratio.
173
174 Other Issues
175 Karen asked if there were any other issues'that had not been identified or discussed at today's meeVng. No additional
176 issues or concerns were identified.
177
178 What's Next
179 Karen said that she would draft minutes as quickly as possible & distribute to email addresses provided. Jo said that she
180 was going to be leaving on vacation early Monday morning & not be back until Friday. Access to email while gone,
181 summarizing her issues in writing & forwarding to Karen via email before she left, or possibly even designating someone
182 else in her absence were all discussed. Jo said that the HOA concerns were shared by the Wilhelms as well so she felt
183 comfortable in having them look over the minutes for revisions/corrections. Karen said that she would copy her on all
184 em ails anyway so that the information would be readily available for her review when she got back. Karen said that she
185 would also contact Christine to see if the Board packet deadline could be extended to Monday, August 18.
186
187 All parties agreed that it would be best to try to address/resolve as lTlaQY issues as possible for inclusion in next week's
188 Board packet. This assures that the Board members have sufficient time to review material on any outstanding issues in
189 advance of the BZA meeting on the 26th. The Wilhelms said that they would probably be seeking legal counsel in this
190 matter.
191
192 Based on feedback from today's meeting, Leslie will also finalize Commitments as requested by the 8ZA Board at last
193 month's meeting.
194
195
196
JI
August 15. 2008
Christine Barton-Holmes. LEED AP
Planning Administrator
Department of Community Services
City of Carmel
One Civic Square
Carmel, Indhl.Oa 46032
In regards to #08060007SU, #08060019V 13403 Ditch Rd.
Dear Ms Barton-Holinesand Board Members,
This letter supplements my previous letter to you dated 7-23-08, and addresses specific concerns which were raised at
July'sBZA meeting.
Concerns voiced by Wilhelms and BOA of Estates of West Clay
1. Traffic concerns
2. # of horses with flies and manure being the most unwanted items.
To address these issues following is relevant infonnation.
We intend to stay at this property long term and make jt our home. Moreover we have a 1 year old that would stay
there with us. it is in our best interest to keep the property as clean as possible.
1. Traffic concerns
. The need for deliveries is correct whether the horses are personally owned or boarding.
Both of the parties voicing objections have fears of increased traffic but have voiced the number 10 horses is
acceptable.
Every effort will be made to restrict deliveries to Qormal hours of operation.
Grain delivery on.;;e per month is the same for 10 or 20 horses.
Bedding delivery once per month is the same for 10 or 20 horses.
Hay delivery will be 3 or 4 times per year which is the same for 10 or 20 horses.
The building will provide adequate storage for all 3.
I do not anticipate having more. than 2-3 boarders (cars) on site at anyone time. Traffic should not be significantly
impacted. This- was also stated by Christine Holmes in her presentation.
A busy show schedule is 1-2 shows per month in the summer and fall (June-Oct). Only about 10 percent of people
keep up to this level. The majority of people who own horses are adult amateurs. They do not compete, or do so twice
a year in the summer. Horse shows are traditionally held on weekends.. The comings and goings from the stable to
transport a horse to a show will still be limited from 8am to 8pm. No competitions will be held on site.
~
I;;J...
2. # ofborses with flies and manure beiof! the most unwanted items.
People are concerned about the scope of our proposed stable, and think 20 horses IS a large operation. Our proposed
stable of 20 boarding horses is going to be one of the least amounts of boarding horses in the area. Boarding stables
usually have 40 or more horses. For Example, Lucky Farms, Reinhardt Farm, Cielo Ranch, Westwind Farm, to name a
few. All are approximately 5 miles from] 3403 Ditch Rd.
Waste removal will be once per week and this is the same for] 0 or 20 horses.
Flies are not an issue with proper manure removal and good ventilation. Ventilation can be done with the use of high
ceiling fans and or box fans. The removal of manure from horse stalls and movement of air is what reduces flies. I will
be looking into automatic fly sprayer systems, although these are not traditionally used in the Midwest. Furthermore,
the arena/riding stable itself will hide the dumpster from view by the adjoining properties. The dumpster itself will be
placed more than 200 ft from existing homes, and the location takes advantage of the prevailing winds from the west
which will blow away from existing homes.
I have cited 2 local examples of 40+ horses on 10 acres. These are well-managed properties. This ratio would support
24+ horses per the 6+ acres of the property on 13403 Ditch Rd. Building a quality arena/riding stable is a substantial
investment, and as such, limiting the number of horses to less than 20, or placing a time limit on the special use
approval, would not be economically feasible. In terms of its use into the future, I am a practicing veterinarian and my
husband is an established physician, and we intend to stay at this property long term and make it our home.
In the board packet there are two support letters from other local equine professionals.
Leslie Ahluwalia DVM
3015 Bridlewood Ln.
Carmel, IN 46033
(3 ]7)569-9101
(3] 7)507-5768 cell
/:3
Christine Barton-Holmes, LEED AP
Planning Administrator
Department of Conununity Services
City of Carmel
One Civic Square
Carmel, Indiana 46032
NOYE: This response letter was
emaiHed the clay after rreceilPt cri the _
Wilhelms' letter dated 7/ZZ/08 but
unfalltlllllatelytb.e July.Board Packet
had already been mailed II
therefore Wa5not seen by the Board
until the night of tile- meeting. It is
being provide4 again for reference.
In regards to #08060007SU, #08060019V 13403 Ditch Rd.
Dear Ms Barton-Holmes and Board Members,
My name is Leslie Ahluwalia pVM. My husband and I are contracted to purchase the
property 13403 Ditch Rd. contingent on approval ofa special use variance. It has come to
my attention that there are some issues the owner of a neighboring property would like to
be addressed.
In response to the letter from Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelm I would like to address each item of
concern. I hope this would alleviate their concerns and any concerns the board might
have.
1. Too many horses and not enough pasture.
If a horse were to acquire its sole source of food from grazing .then the suggested
land use is one horse per 1 acre. Our khowlecige b~ has increased to be able to feed our
horses with hay and grain as their majority source of food (which is now the standard of
care at boarding barns). Pasturing horses as a sole source offood is no longer the
standard for performance horses. These horses get exercise daily and require a buger
number of calories and nutrients than grass can provide.
At maximum capacity horses boarded will be on pasture in a rotation schedule
and with low numbers at one time to keep the pasture land in good condition. With the
approval of an indoor riding arena this will also allow for twn out in bad weather in the
arena.
LoclU examples of boarding barn with similar number of horses/acre as I am
proposmg-
A. Lucky Farms on 99th and Towne Rd in Carmel IN has 40+ horses on less then 10
acres.
B. Reinhart Farm located on Ditch Rd just North of 141 st also has 40+ horses on less
then 10acres. .
I would encourage concerned neighbors or board members to visit these facilities
and see there is no issue ofmanure ortlies. The pastures are wonderful green spaces.
The requested dimensions of house, stable and arena are significantly less than the
allotted 35% -land coverage by Carmel.
." ll"'_"",..~ odors n"ed ~~- _.014-:._1_ ......--~4---/m.-s""-4-~{..;n..~lI.. '"-nl"~~:_g
s.. nJUllou...I'~" , ~ lOll IlllnuplI.. uu.lLIJIl'~lI."lI~ ..."'a.~f.a~III.AJ..I.'y III.lllI"'....IlI~ll.I. .
pf
Horse manure will be collected by a local waste management company. The
dumpster will be in a siZe according to necessity. See pictures of dumpsters at Reinhart
Farm and Westwind Farm (in Westfield IN, 40+ stalls). Each facility has I dumpster with
once a week pick up.
It is in my best interest as owner of a boarding stable to have the manure dumpster
located in such an area that is discrete and visually shielded. My potential clients have no
desire to see a manure dumpster. Estimation of the need for multiple dumpsters is
incorrect because the size stated above is a very small dumpster.
Horse manure will not be spread on the pasture therefore there will not be the
attraction for flies. When designing the stable I will look at all state of the art options
including automatic fly spray systems. These are not utilized in the Midwest often
because of the lack of need.
I will be living with my family on the property also. It is in my best interest make
all attempts to have the property appealing to myself, potential clients, and neighbors.
3. Lighting arenafbarnlparking lot
Lighting in the stable and arena will be placed for tasks and general illumination.
The lights will be on as necessary during business hours. The facility will not be open
24hrs. I expect not have any significant light escaping from the stable or arena. This
would disturb my home as well as neighbors homes; Parking area will have some lights
for safety purposes and if closing the stable Spm I expect lights maybe on until 8:30pm or
so to allow people to pack up and leave. Carmel has lightregulations that must be
followed.
4. A veterinary practice or hospital use.
2003-2006 I was the Indiana Horse Racing Comrhissiori Veterinarian for our 2
racetracks (Hoosier Park and Indiana Downs). Currently, I am working with small
animals. The special use variance applied for is only requesting a boarding facility.
It is my hope that the state of the art boarding facility will have an atmosphere of
elegant equestrian activities. This in turn would have a positive impact on property values
in the immediate area. As a veterinarian I am at the forefront of being able to maintain the
health and well being of the horse while keeping the facility and land at its best. It is also
in my best interest to maintain property at or above health standards and regulations as I
will be living there with my family. The boarding stable will also be creating jobs and
contribute to economy in Carmel.
Leslie Ahluwalia DVM
3015 Bridlewood Ln.
Cartnel, IN 46033
(317)5(i9-9101
(317)507-5768 cell
fir
Leslie A Ahluwalia DVM
Hamilton Crossing Animal Hospital
3101 St Rd 32
Westfield IN 46074
317-867-4393
Education
2003
DVM, University of Wisconsin-Madison
School of Veterinary Medicine
Madison, WI
1996-1997
Graduate Studies in Molt;Cular Biology
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
1992-1996
B.S. in Biology Minor in Chemistry
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI
Work History
Aug 2006-Current
Hamilton Crossing Animal Hospital
Associate Veterinarian
Mar 2005-Aug 2006
Banfield the Pet Ho~pital of Carmel
Associate Veterinarian
June2003-April2007
Indiana Horse Racing Commission
Commission Equine Veterinarian
Hoosier Park and Indiana Downs
June 2003-March 2005
Brandenburg Equine Services
Associate. Equine Veterinadan
Presentations
Demonstration rider: University of Wisconsin Natural Horsemanship Seminar
DemollstratiQn rider: Grand Prix, at tbe Midwest Horse Fair
4-H Speaker, presenting the 'Steps to the Olympics'
Publications
Submitted to Equine Veterinary Journal: Shoulder Lameness in the horse. a case study from 1999-
2005 NCSU.
Equestrian Experience
Trained with numerous Olympians: Caesar Parra, Michael Barisone, Ann Guptill, ~l Lavell, Oded Shimoni
Numerous show awards
Accomplished bringing personally owned horse to the level of Grand Prix: Kareer Girl
Managed North Storm Farm a Hanoverian breeding operation
Competing dressage Third Level-age 15
Franz Rochewanski former Head Master of Spanish Riding Academy in Vienna Austrian-Riding lessons age 12
Ethel Walker Riding AcademySimsbury, CT - Riding lessons age 10
I'
Fwd: Boarding Stable
8{15/08 12:09 AM
From: Leslie Ahluwalia <Iesliedvm-@gmail.com>
To: khammeran@aol.cbm <khammeran@aol.com>
Subject: Fwd: Boarding Stable
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2008 5:55 pm
here is a support letter from one of the vets. the other vet has mailed it to christine.
---------- Forwarded message ---~------
From: <DBMcDavitt@aol.com>
Date: Wed, Aug 13, 2008 at 12:48 PM
Subject: Boarding Stable
To: cholmes@carmel.in.C1ov
Cc: lesliedvm@amail.com
I am an equine veterinarian in Carmel, and I have been asked by Dr. Leslie Ahluwalia to address issues about a twenty
horse boarding st~ble on six acres.
That is a lot of horses for the acrerage, but with proper management, it can be handled very well as long as the horses
get proper exercise and nutrition. The issue of waste should be addressed; but it can be handled in several ways, such
as regular removal or composting. Overall, there are many stables in the State that have similar conditions that run
very well. Being a veterinarian, Dr. Ahluwalia should be very qualified to effectively run a stable like this.
If you have specific questions, you can call me at 317-506-5109.
Dr. Bruce McDavitt
Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.
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J7/1
Page 1 of 2
PEN NSTATE
..
College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension
Agricultural and Biological Engineering
~
~
Horse Stable Manure Management
Eileen Wheeler, Assistant Professor
Jenilifer Smith Zajaczkowski, Senior Research Technologist
~
~
G-97
Aft
Af!f
Manure handling isa necessary evil of
stable management with horse owners
" . naturally preferring to ride ~ther than
clean stalls: Making'surethat slall cleaning and other
manure handling ehore;;.are done efficiently will lead
to more available time with the. horse. It isimportimt
to recognize that horses produce large amounts of
manure that quickly
accumulates! About 12
tons of manure and
soiled beading will be
removed annually from
each horse stall (hous-
inga full-time occu-
pant). Careful eonsider-
ationof how this
material is moved and
stored is needed for
efficient manure
management. Getting
the manure out'of a stall
is only the beginning. A
complete man"uTe
managemenL system
involves collebtion,
storage (temp9rary or
long-lerm),and disposal
or utilization. This
publication provides
information Lo stable
managers on horse
manure characteristics
and options for its
movement and storage. Associated issues such as
odor conLrol,fly breeding, and environmental impact
are addressed in relation to horse facilities.
Manure management practices within horse
facilities deserve careful.attention. Since most
hors<;:s are kepfin suburban or rural residential
settings,itis essential for stables to be ~ood neigh-
borS. Often, suburban
horse facilities have
limited or no acreage
for land disposal of
manure and soiled
bedding. There are
several alternatives for
handling manure that
. include land disposal,
stockpiling for future
handling, removal
from stable site, and
composting. Some
stables have developed
markets to distribute
or sell the sLallwaste.
Whether in a suburban
or rural setting, proper
manure manaj1;ement
is based on simple
principles that will
virtually eliminate
environmental pollu-
tion impacts and
nuisances such as odor
. and flies.
An Equal Opportunity University
College of Agricultural Sciences. U.s. Department ot Agriculture, and Penn.ylvania Counties Cooperating
It
~
Environmental Impact
Minimizing Nuisallcer
For a suburban selling, ovcrcomingpotential prob"
.ferns includes overcoming percepiionsand miseon-
, eeptlonsabout the,nUlsancc.and pollution potential of
, horse faciliti~. Most people enjoy horses, ye,t
neighbors can be more concemedthat horses'are
manure-generating, fly an9 odor machines. The
operation of a horse facility with a large number of
horses on limited acreage can intensify nuisance
problems not noticed at small stables. Generally in
the northeast, two to three acres of . good pasture per
horse is needed for t!ummer feeding purposes. More
horses per acre are Common and successfUlly m~
a~ withsul)l)lemental feedin!!. Fortunatelv careful
management'and attention to detail can overcome
potential problems of intensivc'hor,se operations.
Pests commonly associated'with animal agriculture
are flies.and small rodellts. such as'mlye'a[\d rats.'
,Aies and odors, are. the most common complaints.
Proper manure management practices can virtually
eliminate farm pests and odors; Figure 2 shows some
simple yet important site planningfeaturesto mini-
mize nuisances associated with manure management.
Insects. It is always easier and more effectivc to
prevent fly breeding than it is to control adult flies.
Eliminating the habitat required by the larvae to
hatch and grow significantly reduces fly populations.
Flies deposit eggs in the top few inches of moist
manure which me(lns thin minimizing the amount of. .
moist manure surface area available to the fly is one
fly reduction strategy. Eggs can.hatch in as little as
seven days under optimill temperature-and moisture
conditions. Fly bre'cding season starts when spring
temperatures get above.65"Fand ends at the first
killing frost in the fall. It has been calculated that,
under ideal breeding conditions, one fly can produce
300 million flies in about 60 days! [[manure is
removed from the stable,site or made' undesirable for
flybrecding within a maximum seven-da'y cyCle, few
flies will develop.
Make manure less desirab!~ asa fly egg depOsi-
tion site by keeping it as dry as posSible; below 50%
. moisture. SQread manure out in thin layers,during.
field application or field dragging, or exclude precipi-
tation by roofing.or tarping the. permanent holding
area and covering any dumpsters or temporary
,manure storage. Cleaning up decaying organic
material is essential to fly control. Filth flies lay eggs
in any dCL'llying organic matter including spilled feed,
manure left in stall cOrners, grass clippings, and
manure piles. Store small amounts of manure in
containers with tight fitting lids. Keeping spilled
grain cleaned up will not only supprcssfilth fly
populations but also reduce.feedsources for mice and
rats. further information is available in Pest Man-
agement Recommendation For Horses (see Addi-
tional Resources).
Rodents. Clean out trash, dumps, piles of old lumber
or manure, and garbage where rats and mice hide.
Keeping weeds trimmed around buildirigs likewise
reduces hiding places, Stacked feedbags create ideal
Figure 3. Preventing fly breeding is
more effective than trying to control
adult flies.
Ittt
~ Figure 4. Clean tidy surroundings
arid secure feed storage will
discourage rodents. Consider a
hungry barn cattoo.
5
passageways in which rodents can eat, tiide, and breed.
Store fced in rodent proof bins, prefera.blymetal or
lined with metal or wire mesh; A 30-gallon Ira~h can
will hold a rOO-pound sack offeed, Feed from these
containers rather than from an open bag, and clean up
any spilled feed immediately., Areas under feed bins,
bunks, and buckets are excellent feeding grounds for
rodents. Concrete floors and foundations deter rodent
entry as do metal shields on door'and screens over
small openings. Youngniice can squeeze through an,
opening as small as Olll'~"qu3rter inch. Overfed, pet cats
are Ilolusually good mousers but a barn cat can deter
rodents. Poison bait is riot often safe around horse
facilities due to the presence of pets and children,
however secure bail boxes are effective.
~.
Odor. Nuisance odor from the horses themselves is
generally minimal. Offensive.odorsean be generated
from manure. If manure is allmved to dccompose
without enough oxygen it will be anaerobic (without
oxygen) and will usual1yproduce offensive odors.
Aerobic (with oxygen) decOniposition, such as
composting, does not produce such odors because the
microbes decomposing the waste utilize the nutrients
and produce odor-free compounds (water vapor and
carbon dioxide, for example) as a by"product. It is
best to anticipate some odOr from the manure storage
area due to daily fresh manure additions. Place the
area downwind of the stable facility and'residential
areas to minimize odor problems. Summer breezes
are the main concern .if winter and summer prevailing
wind directions are not the same. When odors are
allowedto become a problem, neighbors will be less
tolemnt during warm weather as they are outdoors
more often and have open hou.se windows.
~
Aesthetics. Another nuisance associated with waste
management can be the visuaLaspcct of I~rge manure.
storage piles.. Keep the. storage site.screened from
view with vegetation, fencingand/or by location in a
visually remote area. A well~designed and managed
.sial! waste facility can be reasonably contained and
not offensive visually. Visually screening the storage
is worthwhile because "out of sight is out of mind" if
the storage is otherwise well managed.
Preventing Water PoUution
Manure Pile Runoff. Anyon-site manure stomge
should not contribute to ground or surface water
pollution. Leachate is the brownish liquid that has
"leached" from the solid pile contents and drains off
a waste pile bottom. Not all piles will have leachate;
:2..6
in fact, manage to avoid leachate formation. Stall
waste is typicaHy very dry with little leachate. When
water or pure'manure, such a~ from paddock or arena
cleanup, is added, some leachate may form. A
covered storage area will have much less leachate
than one exposed tb precipitation. Make sure that
any pile leachate is prevented from contaminating
groundwater or nearby waterways by capturing or
diverting it. A concrete pad with sidewalls will be
necessary to contain leachate from very large uncov-
ered piles. Leachate drainage to a treatment system
such a~ a.grassed infiltration area (see Vegetated
Filter Area 'sidebar) will be necessary. especially for
geologically and socially sensitive areas where runoff
is a concern.
Another porentiid source of water pollution is
from field-applied manure that is 'subj~t to surface
runoff conditions or is deposited near waterways.
Apply stall manure.so that runoff is min.imized.
Guidelines are provided in the Direct Disposal section.
Stall :Flooring. The type of stall flooring may
determine the potential for groundwater pollution.
from the stable. Concrete, most asphalt, and well-
packed clay floors are considered impermeable to
water flow. However, with any stall flooring mate.
rial, there is so much bedding used in horse stalls that
urine and any liquid from the manure are soaked up
by bedding. Therefore, free urine in contact with the.
f1(loring material is ll1inimal compared to other
hvestock housing. Drains are not necessary in horse
stalltloors, except under circumstances noted below.
Floors in wash smlls will need to have imperme-
able and durable floors such as concrete or asphalt.
Drains ate recommended for wastewater removal to
an approved discharge area (see Vegetated Filter Area
sidebar). Some situations demand that stalls are
frequently washed down and disinfected; such as
foaling stalls or'hospital stalls. When large amounts
of water are used. impervious floors and drains will
be necessary.
If drains. are located in the stall, they should be
outfitted with a removable cover and located to one
side of the stall. to prevent un<:omfortable conditions
when.the.horse lies down in the center oCthe stalL
The floor should slope slightly (I-inch per 6-feet is
adequate) toward the drain. An alternative is to slope
the stall floor toward the front stall door where a
shallow, narrow gutter (about I-inch deep by 4 to 12
inch wide) is positioned along the front stall wall in
the aisle floor. This gutter would then slope along the
aisleloward drains. Horse Stable Flooring Materials
and Drainage [G-96] has more information.
6
The floor in an open-sided shed is usually of the (Figure 2). A stone dust footing works well by
native matcrial found on thc buildingsiic. Pastured decreasing mud potential, aiding drainage, and
horses do not spend much time-in ihe shelter unless .providing a surface from which to; pick manure. The
encouraged to do so by feeding or fencing. Ground- !""diny-day paddock should be surrounded by well-
water pollution potential is minimalbecalise little establishe.d sod so that <!-ny.runoff is captured and
manure will be deposited in the shed. If horses will diverted from adjoining buildings and pastures.
befedor confined in this facility, then a more durable Fencing of sensitive <ireas such as arollnd streams
floor may be desirable along with a plan to collect and natural waterways,will alleviate further water
and dispose of the accumulated. manure. Packed pollution. Please see the Fencing for Horses bulletin
limestone screenings work very wellin,open sheds rG-981 for further detail on.stream bank fencing and
by providing good drainage and ease of cleaning. rainy-day paddock construction.
Rainy-Day Paddocks. Many farm managers have~ Manure Handling
rainy-day paddocks that are exercise lots with no
pasture grass. They are used for turnout during Efficient Movement. When handling large quanti-
inclement weather when horse traff~c on grass ties of bulky material, straight-line movement
pastures would tear the turf into a muddy mess.. through wide doors is the mqst.effident. Avoid
Ungrassed paddocks alsowotk well for horses kept stable designs that necessitate turns and tight pas-
on limited acreage or when pastures have been sages fortravel from the stall to manure deposition
reseeded, fertilized,or are rested as part of rotational area Hand labor is qlost common in horse stall
grazing program. Some manage~suseout9()Qr riding Cleaning. To increase worker efficiency provide
arenas for turnout paddocks. Locate exercise pad- plenty of stall light;. minimize lifting, and make the
docks on high ground with provision for: cleaning the temporary manure stockpile area easily accessible
area of manure and decreasing flInoff potential from all areas of the stable (Figure 5).
Convenient travel
distance to all stalls
Exterior loading acCess
Minimize lifting
Gradual
sw~ping
turns
:;g
~
UJ
I I
Plenty of light for
work efficiency
, . ' .
AVOid narrow passages
and tight corners
7
Outdoor light lor U
pre-dawn chores
Figure 5. Efficient handling of large quantities of
bulky material includes straight"llne movement
through wide doors to a convenient stockpile
area.
Use gravity w:here
possIble to transfer stall
waste to storage
7
..
~./
~
A mechanized altemative is the barn cleaner
which automatically moves the waste from thc stall
area to the temporary stockpile area. Abam cleaner
is a scraper that operates in a narrow gutter (about
l6-inches wide)and has cIoselyspaced flights on a
chain drive (Figure 6). It is designed to handle
wastes with high solids content typical of horse stall
waste. The gutter cleaner can be located under the
floor at the back ofthe,stall {lr along the side of an
aisle servicing the stalls (Figure 7). The primary
advantage is that minimal worker effort is required to
move stall waste into the gutter: no lifting, no moving
carts" and no travel to the temporary stockpile area.
The disadvantages are thdnitial cost, complexity of
installation, and maintenance of the gutter system.
StaIr gutters must be covered an? bedded over when
horses are in tbestalI. With aisle gutters, horses get
used to stepping around;them even if gutters are left
uncovered. Safety may becoltle an issue if normally
covered aisle gutters are left open.
Manure Storage
The stall waste will have to bl' stored somewhere
whether temporarily or longer tlmn, Stored manure
must be kept in a f1y-tightareaduring the warm
months or managed to prevent tly breeding and
protected from rainfall and surface runoff. A well~
built storage pad or container will aid waste handling
and minimize pollution potential from the pile. The
pad can be as informal as a level,well-packed
surface with a wood or masonry backstop (Figures 8,
9, 10) or can be a covered structure with imperme-
able flooring. If topography permits, a below-grade
storage container is a less objectionable structure as it
keeps the manure contained to a small area, is out of
view. can be covered, a,nd is easily filled using
gravity to dump waste intoit (Figure 11). One side
should be at ground level for emptying. Longer-term
manure storages are often more substantial structures
than short-term storages. Large qual)tities of manure
require a storage designed witli wide door(s), a high
roof, and strong construction to allow c1eanou! with
power equipment. Examples of features are shown in
Figures 12 and 13. Additional details of large
manure storages are available in the Livestock Waste
Facilities Handbook (see Additional Resources).
....Manurc for commercial pick up can be stored in a
container or dumpster. With any manure storage,
large or small, atarp or other cover is recommended
to minimize leachate production from rainfall.
d..~
1 or 2 Buck Walls to aid
unloading and to screen
from view (Use pressure
treated wood)
Concrete or
crushed
limestone base
Sod to capture
any liquid
runo"
Figure 8. Simple manure stockpile pad. with
backstop, thaUs suitable for a small stable. It is
recommended that a tarpor other cover be
used to minimize leachate production from
precipitation.
Manure stack
4i min rise to (iivert
I runoff away from stack
...-.
10imax
entrance
1/81/1 t
slope
towards
drain Drain GuUer
Figure 9. Manure pad slope and drainage. Drain
and gutter are recommended in all cases. They
are essential if the manure stack will not be
protected from rainfall. Leachate (effluent) must
be directed to a storage tank and/or suitable
method of disj:lOsal [Reproduced with permission
from Livestock Waste Facilities Handbook, MWPS-1B.]
9
Siting the Manure Storage
The waste stockpile areas must be accessible to
trucks or tractors in all weather conditions. A,.loca-
tion on high ground will usually provide firm 'soil
well above ground water. This will be a suitable' base
for the storage facility and access road, Keep manure:
away from building materials, as corrosive chemicals
in the manure can damage, them, Do not store
manure in places where,runoff or floodwater will
cause nutrients to enter nearby waterways. table}
lists distances to, separate the manure storage from
sensitive areas such'as nearby water sources or
residences. Do not store manure in paddOCks due to
increased parasite exposure for the horses. Locatc
storages downwind from both the farm and neigh-
bors' residences. Consider the'aesthetics of the
storage placement so that it can be screened from
view (Figure 2). Use natural or man-made screening
such as a hedgerow or fence to improve the aesthetics
and help contain any odors. Remember that for many
pcrceiv~d nuisances, out of sight can he out of'mind
for neighbors. Provide for easy filling of the storage
with a tractor-mounted rrylnure loader or scraper~
elevator stacker unit (figures 6 and Il). Unload
waste with a trador-mounted bucket.
Good drainage at any manure storage site is
absolutely necessary. The site. may be graded to
divert surface runoff without creating erosion, Poor
drainage results in saturated conditions leading to
muddy acce'ss and pools of dirty water. Diveit any
surface drainage water and runofUrom nearby roofs
away from the pile area. .on-Farm Composting
HandbOok, NRAES-54 has detail of surface water
*
diversion and site grading. Maily stables and indoor
riding arenas do not have gutter:; and downspouts so
that tunofT from these builaings is substantia!, A
gutter and downspout system will collect and divert
water away from the building foundation and bypass
the manure storage, Tarps or a,roofcd structure over
the manure storage can be used to. minimize rainwa-
ter entry if leachate containment becomes a problem.
Do nOl.allowpolluted runoff to pool as mosquitoes
and flies will breed in the moist area.
Manllgement of the Stored Manure
With proper management, the nuisances of flies and
odors from manure storage call be minimaL The
major deterrent to fly breeding in horse operations is
to keep the manure as dry as possible. Other wet
organic material sites also need to be removed.
Remove manure from the farm at least every seven
days during fly breeding season or operate ,a properly
managed composting facility.
Add new stall waste to the pile as a large block
of material to minimizefresh manure surface expo-
sure. This reduces the area of OOo'r volatilization and
a~cess to moist manure for fly breeding. Avoid
dumping new- material on top of a pile where it
spreads out and falls away down the sides creating a .
large fresh, wet'manuresurface area promoting flies
and odor. Flies lay eggs in the lop two inches of
moist manure.
Beneficial and naturally occurring fly predators
(tiny, non-stinging wasps) and parasites should he
associated with the manure storage. Avoid indis-
criminate use of larvicides and other pesticides that
~.;
Table 3. Minimum separation distances commonly recommended.for cbmposting
and manure handling activities. Source: On-Farm Composing Handbook, NRAES-54.
Sensitive area
Property line
Residence orplace of business
Minimum separation
distance (feet)
50 - 100
200 - 500
Private wellar other potable water source
, Wetlands or surface'water (streams, pond, lakes)
Subsurface drainage pipe or drainage ditch
discharging to a natural water course
Water table (seasonai high)
Bedrock
.;23
100" 200
100 - 200
25
2.5
2.5
14
*
the other nutrient, aesthetic, and fly egg de~iccation
characteristics remain). There is some recent evi-
dence that spreading thin layers of manure on pas-
tures can enhance grazing horses' parasite exposure
by spreading viable parasites over a larger area. The
recommendation is to leave the manure piles in
clumps and pick them up for disposal outside the
pasture area.
Field application is based on fertilizer needs of
the-crop or pasture grass through soil sampling. The
approJ>imate fertilizer value of manure from bedded
horse stalls (46% dry matter) is 4tb/ton ammonium-
N, 14lb/ton Total N, 4lb/ton PPs (phosphate) and
141b/ton K20 (potash). [Fertilizer value of manure at
20% moisture without bedding is approximately 12-
5-9lbfton (N-PP5-KP)]. Nutrient values vary
widely so use these values'as guidelines and have the
manure analyzed if more specific analysis i:o. needed.
The amount of organic nitrogen mineralized (released
to crops) during the fif!>t croppingseason after
application of horse manure is about 0.20. Orll'anic
. c
mtragen must be released through mineralization
before plants can use.it. About 20% of the Ofll'anic N
from horse manure is available to the pasture ~rass
the year of application. Org'dnic N released during
subsequcnt scasons is uslial.ly about 50% (second
year), 25% (third year) and 13% (fourth year) of the
first year mineralization,
~ontract Disp~saJ. Another manure:disposal option
tS to contract With a hauler who will removet.he
. waste from the stable facility. The waste can be used
in a commercial composting operation or for othcr
functions where the waste disposal is the responsibil-
ity of the hauler. Dumpsters are.positioned at the
stable for temporary stall waste storage (no trash or
garbage); a full dumpster is replaced wit.h an empty
one. Dumpsters should be. sized so that the contents
are emptied atleasfweeklV'durine: the'fly breeding
~easoll. Make sure the dUmpster is located so that
.Jbam waste.can be,conveniently dumped into it and
trucks can access and empty the dumpster during all
weather (Figure 11). A concrete tank or pad is useful
to contain any dumpstcr leachatc.
A less formal "contract" disposal is t.o interest
neighbors in free garden organic material. The key is
to locate thc organic fcrtilizer enthusiasts. Owners of
small stables have had success with newspaper ads .
and locating "free" bagged manure at curbside.
Empty feed sacks filled with horse'manure are a
useful package for manure distribution,
c9-f
Heat
Water
CO2
O2
Cool air
Figure 16. Simple process of a composing stall
waste pile.
By-Product: f:ompost. An alternative 10 "dispos-
ing" of horse,mani.Jre is to compost it in'to a by-
product of tile operation. Composting occurs natu-
rally if stall waste is allowed to decompose in the
presence of oxygen and is kept relatively moist,
above 50% moisture content (Figure 16). The
microbes th~t decompose the bedding and manure 'are
naturally occurring in .stall waste. In fact commer-
cial composters.and mushroom substratc preparation
facilitics oftcn :o.cck straw-bedded horse staB waste.
Composting provides a material that is more readily
marketable than raw stall waste. Finished composL is
partially degraded manure and is more organically
stable and therefore presents less of a pollution
threat. Its finer LeJ>ture, high organic matter content
and fertilizer value make il desirable as a garden soil
amendment. Composting reduces thc volumc of
waste by 40% to 70%. Horse manure, with ils
associated bedding, is almosL perfectly suited for
composting because it hasappropnilte levels of
nitrogenous material and carbon-based bedding
material. (The carbon: nitrogen ratio of stall waste is
20: I to 30: I.) Stables have successfully given away,
or even sold, bulk and bagged horse compost. Golf
courses and nurseries provide an outlet for truckloads
of compost
Pathogens and fly eggs are killed by
composting's highLempcrature. Parasite eggs can be
killed with 30-minutes exposure to 140<P that will
occur on the insi<.leof a properly composted pile.
These temperatures are no! reached on the pile
ex-terior which is one reason Ihe pile is periodically
mixed and tumeil so tnat ex-terior material is incorpo-
16
ID-167 .
Cooperative Extension Service
hrdue University
West Lafayette, IN 47907
"__. _ _..~.. _'_~'.. .'".._____._,.__ ___....____.__ .._._'.__,_.._..~,_.'_.. ,___ ..__._._...__.____.__.,...___..____-'--,._,_._. ____.__.__._,__ _,________._~__. __. ~L~._.___u.__ .
. .
Maximizing the Value of Pasture for Horses
K D. Johnson, Agronomy Department
M. A. .Russell, Ani~al Scienc~ Department, Purdue pnaversity
Management of horse pasture is an ongoing process thattakes time, equipment, knowledge, and dollars. If
managed wisely and well, pasture will be' an e~onomicaJ. so~e of high-q~ty feed as well as a healthy
place for horses to exercise. Itinanaged poorly or ignored, pasture can soon become nothing. more than an
overgrazed weed patch that not only has little nutritional value, but may even contribute to horse health
problems. .
The purpose of this publication is to help horse owners get the most out of the time, effort, and money they
are (()r should beJpi.ttting into .permanent pasture management. Discus~ed first are two basic oasture-
~planning decisions: (l) the nutritional role of your pasture acrea~e whether it's to be a major feed source or
just an exercise lot; and (2) the options for pasture improvement-whether to renovate, reestablish, or merely
maintain. Presented next are step- by-step procedures for renovating or reestablishing an existing pasture,
and for establishing a new one. The final sectionreview~ those practices that help maintain-even ex.tend-
pasture productivity.
http;llwww.t:es.purdue.edu/extmedla/ID/10-167.html
Page 1 of 21
:J.S
ID-16"
8/8/08 4:Q1 P/I.
The agronomic practices described in this publication (including lime and fertilizer rates~ forage seeding
mixtures, rates and planting- dates; see.dbed preparation; and weed control) are also applicable to pasture
management for other livestock species.
PASTURE PLANNING DECISIONS
W' Usage Decision-Nutrition or Exercise Only?
The first decision is whe.ther to use the pasture for exercise purposes only or as a major part of your
nutritional program. Most horses benefit from being outside regularly to exercise. This need can be met on
relatively small, well-drained lots. Free exercise reduces behavior and respiratory problems, improves bone
growth, and increases vitamin metabolism.
If your desire, however, is for the pasture to serve as a feed source, other factors need to be considered
including its potential nutritional value and its carrying capacity.
Pasture nutritional value. Most horses can be- maintained nutritionally through the growing season 011 well-
managed pasture if provided with fresh water and a supply of trace...miIleralized salt. Table 1 compares the
nutrient composition of three pastures with the nutritional needs of various types of horses. Productive
pasture during the growing season can replace the hay and reduc.e the concentrate required by most horses,
and can replace all feed for those that are laid up, mature, idle, or pregnant. Note in Table 1 that lactating
mares and fast-growing weanlings will probably need additional energy, protein, and minerals.
The values in this table also indicate a marked decrease in nutrient availability as forages mature.
Consequently, management practices need to be utilized that keep the forage actively growing. The key to
nutritional management is to continually observe the horses and supplement the pasture only it their body
condition so indicates.
Pasture carrying capacity. Horses should consume 1 percent or more of their body weight per day in forage
dry-matter. If the major nutrient source is pasture, a lOOO-pound horse will collectively consume and waste
approximately 3 tons of forage dry matter during a typical 6-month grazing season. Thus, with average
managementJ it would take about 2 acres-of pasture to meet the nutrient needs of a mature horse.
Of course, the carrying capacity of any particular pasture will depend on such things as type of horses, soil
type. soil fertility, drainage condition~,amount of rainfall, time. of y~; and type of forage species present.
For instance, in mid- to late-summer or in droyghty periods, grass-only pastures will not carry as many
horses as grass-legume pastures. Many annual forage species can be planted to provide supplemental feed in
times of short permanent pasture supply. Cooperative Extension Service publication, A Y -263J provides
complete detail on their utilization. For most individuals, purchasing hay is a more economical solution to
the crisis.
Table 1. Nu.trient Composition ofPaSWre Dry Matter Compared with the Nutrient
Needs of Horses. *
Pasture sp~cie5 Dry Digestible Crude Phos-_
and maturity matter energy . protein calcium phorus_ vitamin A
http:( Iwww.ces_purdue_edu/el<tmedia/ID/ID-167.html
Page 2 of 2{
2..b
AS-?54-'
-~
Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, West Lafayette, IN 47907
Introduction to Horse Management
c.M. Brady, Department of 4-H Youth Development; KS. Kanne, Department of 4-H
. " YOuth Development; and M.A. Russell; Department of Animal Sciences
Owning a horse can be an incredibly rewarding
experience. However, certain decisions must be made if
you are "going to be prepared for this undertaking.. This
publication will review the basic needs of the horse and
discuss the management considerations important to the
horse's cOlllfortat)d health. References providing more
.detailed information are listed at the end ofthe.,article.
Hcuslng
Before choosing housing for your horse; ask yourself the
foIlowing questions:
'. Where vrillltreep the horse?
. A hOTseowner can chQose to either board the horse
at thekhome, or to board the horse at a professional
, boarding facility. .
*" What are the horse's needs?
. II The animal only needs shelter from the wind and
weather, and a dry place to eat. Don't confuse what
will make you as the horse owner more comfortable
with the horse's basic needs.
What do I intend. to do with my borse?
I!I If you want to show early in the year, you will need a
place to ride all.year, and possibly an arena to fit and
condition the horse.
What can I afford?
. You can spend as much as you wantto on a horse
facility. Estimate $7 persquare foot of floor; space as
the absolute minimum cost to build an enclosed barn
for horses. Cost will increase as amenities are added~
Fencing
Safe and adequate fencing is a vital part ofahorse
facility, either your own, or the place you choose to
board. All horses should be allowed as much outs,ide, free
exercise as possible. This will reduce the incidence of
stable vices; as well as contribute to the general overall
health of the horse. This is especially true in the case of
foals and young horses, who have fewer pro~lems with-
. respiratory dise~es and more nonnal bone development
when they are housed outside with unlimited exercise.
d-.7
When choosing fence material, find one that i~ sturdy,
yet will not injure;an animal caught in it. The most
common types of fencing are wOoden post mid hardwood
. board, post and rail, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), woven
wire, electrified wire, or a combination of them. All
line fences should be at least 4 feet high, and Solidly
constructed. As a general rule, the smaller the paddock
(fenced area), the stronger the fences need to~. Wooden
fences.are very eye appealing, but cost and maintenance
can be high. Poly vinyl chloride fencing is becoming
increasingly popular because you can get the look of
wooden fence, withoUt the maintenance. However, PVC is
a more expensive option than many of the others.
Feeding
Horses, like people; have specific nutritional requirements.
The nutrients of greatest concern to horsemen are water,
salt, protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D and
E, and energy. Horses are divided. into five nutritional
classifications; based on the demands of their workload. The
classifications are:
Maintenance
IIlI Not growing, pregnant, lactating, or doing significant
work. Most pleasure horses fithere.
Gestation (pregnancy)
III Increased nutritional requirements the last 113 of
pregnancy.
Lactation
II Mares that are actively nursing foals. Very high
nutrient requirements, especially at the beginning of
lactation.
Growth
. Increased protein and energy requirements until full
skeletal growth is reached at approximately 5 years.
Work and Exercise
. The harder the horse. is working and being exercised,
the more energy itwill need in its diet.
Begin: grooming by loosening dirt with a rubber
currycomb used in a circular motion. Feel free to apply
as much pressure as your horse is comfortable with, as
this is a mas~ge for the horse, as well as a method of dirt
removal. Because the rubber currycomb is hard, it shouLd
be'u$edoiliy above the knees and hocks, and not on the
face. The next step is to use a stiff brush (Dandy brush)
to rembvethe loosened dirt. Brush briskly in the direction
of the hair, with a "flicking" motion to remove the dirt
and debrisfromlhe hair coat. Continue by going over the
animal once again with a soft brush, stroking with the
grain of the hair,. and then towel off the excess dust. Use a
hoofpick torernove any dirt or stones from the animal's
. feet and finish by combing out ,the mane and tail. It is
AI~~eed sh~~ld be stored lIt a clean,. ~, secure area importan~ to remember that aLthough the horse may enjoy
that IS macc~sslble to ~ehorse, even If .It ~etsJoose. A a vigorous grooming. the lower legs and face are very
separate gram room WIth a secure door IS, .deal. P~otect the sensitiv.e, and should be treated accordingly.
feedstuffs from the weather, as well as from vennm such ~
as mice, rats, ~accoons. and opossums. Fifty-five gallon. Waste Removal '
, drums or plastic garbage tubs with lids work well for Cleaning stalls can be an important part of your daily
concentrates. Hay should always be off the gfound or floor aerobic exercise, Horses kept, or fed, inside should bave
on pallets to allow for air movement to prevent IDQld. Hay their stalls cleaiJ.ed once a day. Do not remove all of the
is combustible, and can spontaneously ignite; therefore, it bedding,. just the soiled or wet bedding and manure. Most
is preferable to store the majority ofyouf hay ina separate horses are habitual in their eliminative behavior, so after
site from the barn where the horses are housed, with just you have cleaned the stall a few times, you wllUearn
enough hay in the bam for a week's feeding. where the horse urifiates, and defecates, which will hasten
the cleaning process. Once a week or so, the stall will
need to be stripped (all bedding material removed) and
allowed to dry. Ideally, the horse could be left outside for a
while, and the <<wet spot" can be left open to the air. If that
is not possible, put dJy bedding in any wet spots to soak. up
the moisture, and then remove it Sprinkling agricultural
lime on the floor of the stall will act as a mild sanitizer and
keep the moistJ,ire and odor down, but lime should always
be covered with bedding before the. horse is returned to the
stall.
The horse, unlike ruminants (cattle~ goats, sheep, etc.),
has a relatively small capacity for feed in his digestive
tract. Horses can consumeahout 2]/2 percent ()ftheir body
weight per day; As an animal that evolved as a nibbler
ilnd graier, it is best to feed horses smaller quantities of
feect, especially concentrate, at least twice per day at about
12-hour intervals. That means a 1,OOO-pound horse will
eat about 25 pounds of feed per day of which at least half
should be forage (pasture, hay, or hay cubes).
Water
Clean, freshwater, and trace-mineralized salt should be
available regularly or on a. free-choice, basis on pasture or
in the barn. The average 1 OOO~pound adult horse cali easily
drink- 10 to 12 gallons of water a day. Horses will suffer
more quicldyfrom alack of water or salt than if they are
, forced to go without feed.
Feed Storage
Health
Horses are susceptible to a variety of diseases, as well
. . as both internal andextemal parasites. To keep your horse
healthy, it is important to vaccmate against diseases.
deworm regularly, and properly care for teeth and feet.
Establish a feglllarprogram with a local veterlnarian and
farrier (horseshoer). then let them help you make health
care decisions.
Daily Maintenance
Grooming, waste removal, and exercise need to be done
regularly for your horse to maintain good health. This
takes time and, of course, the proper equipment. To do
an adequate job, you will need: brushes, towels, combs,
currycombs, hoof picks, manure forks, shovels, rakes, a
wheelbarrow, manure spreader, a bridle, saddle, saddLe
pad, halters, lead rope, and lunge line. It is not necessary
to have fancy equipment, but if you ate going to do the
needed chores. then some tools will need to be available.
Grooming
Grooming your horse serves two functions. It removes
excess dirt and hair to produce a better coat and
[)~
circulation. and it gives you a chance to thoroughly inspect
your animal for injuries, swellings. and abnormalities.
Furthermore, it is all opportunity to spend time with your
horse and' strengthen the bond with your equine partner.
Manure should be removed from past:Qres periodically.
The frequency will depend on the concentration of horses.
All manure should be properly com posted before use
on livestock ground to kill any parasites and parasite
larvae. Do not spread uncomposted horse manure on
horse pastures, as this will recontaminate the pasture with
parasites. Horse mamtre is an excellent source of nutrients
for cropland, gardens, 'landscape companies, and nurseries;
or you maybe able tO,have it removed bv a local waste
management company.
-*
Exercise
Exercise fer the norsetakes various forms. Riding,
driving, lungeing, and wming outthe animal ~ all
'satisfactory methods. IfyoUT horSe is kept outdoors, it will'
exercise to some degree by walking around. However,
stalled horses should be outfor at Least 60 minutes each day.
You cannot allow a horse to stand in a stall, or riot be
ridden, for months and expect to go riding for.3 to 4 hours
without problem~. Rememb,er, the horse iSari athlete, not
a machine, and requires conditioning to be fit. Horses also
must be wanned up before any'type of stres:;;tl.d activity.
The walking around the horse does in a pasture will not
condition it for heavy riding. Conditioning horses is based
on the same principles as conditioning any athlete, so keep
that in mind when determining ifyollr horse is, fit enough
for a particular activity:
Never aUowyour horse to cat a meal or drink unlimited
water immediately after exercising becausethis can cause
colic or founder. The most effective way to coolthe
horse out is to remove the tack, hose 'the horse down to
remove sweat and dirt, and walk the horse at its own pace,
allowing it to take a few sips ofwateT periodically. Once
the horse is completely cooled out, it can hayeas much
water as it desires. Grooming or hosing-down the horse
after exercise will remove sweat and dirt, and provide an
opportunity for you to examine the horse and make,sure
it dido't receive any injuries during 1he exercise period.
Putting the horse away clean will also reduce itching and
i.rritation to its' skin, and improve hair coat quality.
PURDUE
UN I V E "'R SIT Y
Summary
As you can see, there are many things to be considered
before you decide to undert;ake keeping ,a horse on YOUT
own. InitiaJly, you might be better off boarding the horse
with someone else, but if you own more than one horse,
the right decision may be to bring them home. Managing
hors~s takes a lot of planning, time, and dollars, so the
more researcb and fact.finding you can do before you
bring the horses home, the greater the chance of having
a positive experience fOT bo1h you and the horse. Jt may
also be advisable to spend som~ time with a knowledgabll
horse person in your area to learn how to take proper
care of your horse. This has beeria brief review of the
areas of management needs forhorses~ Refer to the listed
publications fOT further details. Contact y~ur county
Extension office, or the, Extension web site, for copies of
these and other publications on horse management
for more Information:
AS- 418 Fencing fOT Horses in Indiana
AS-553-W Introduction to H:ousing for Horses
AS-552- W Introduction to Body Condition Scoring
Horses
DVD-4..H-995 OUT First Horse: Considerations before yo\
Buy DVD; http://\\'\v'wourfirsthorse.info
NEW 1011
.'
- '
It is the,policy of tile Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, David c.Petritz. Director, that all persons shall have equal opportunity and access
to the programs and facilities without regard to race, color, sex, religion. ~ational origin, age, marital status, parental,st8tUs, sexual or1!lntation, or disability,
Purdue University is, an Affirmative ACtion employer,
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How many horses should be housed on acre of
land?
The council and the city staff are trying to find the best formula for
determining the number of horses per acre.
By ANNE UNDBERG
Published July 25. 2004
PINELLAS PARK - Philosophers worry about how many angels can dance on the head of a pin. In Pinellas Park, the question
is a b~ different How many horses should live. on an acre of land?
That's the question bedeviling Pinellas Park staff members'these days after the councillold them to corne up with the ideal
number of horses per acre.
Council members decided a set number was necessary after a property owner asked to board 40 .horses on 3.45 acres. The
council turned her down 3-2 bUI said she could have 22 horses.
Staff members studied the issue and consulted with. the city's Equestrian Commission and came up with an answer - eight
horses per acre.
But some council members thought that was too many when they discussed it last Tuesday.
Then the discussion bogged down in a question o/what to do with portions of an acre: What happens if the property is 1.5
acres, for example?
Should the owner be limited to eight horses?
Should it be rounded up to 2 acres, meaning the owner could have 16' horses ?
Or, should the horses be apportioned, meaning the owner could have 12 horses; eight for the acre and four tor the half acre?
That last made council members happier, but they took the Item off the agenda minutes before Thursday's meet.ing. Staff
members discovered that mosl of the city's existing boarding stables could have more horses under the proposed change.
First Choice Equestrian on 62nd Avenue N would be able to have 88 horses on its 11 acres. The stable currentiy houses 30.
Mathias, also 00 62nd Avenue N, would be able to double ils horse population on its 4.51 acres from 20 to 40.
Cherokee Ranch on 90th Avenue N could have 72 I10rses on its 9-plus acres. II currently has 60.
Still others, if not grandfathered, would have to reduce their horse population.
Oar Es Salaam Farms on 6:3rd Terrace N could have no horses. It's 0.47 acres currently has four equines.
Majestic Oaks on 6200 Avenue N would have to cut its horse population from 21 to eight. It has 0.67 acres.
Whispering Trail Farms on 94th Avenue N, with 0.22 acres, would not be able to have any horses. It currently has seven.
Assistant City Manager Tom Shevlin said city staff will reviSit the Issue. It is not clear when a new proposal will oome to the
council.
"Ideally we'd like to give our horses a 101 of acres, but practicality doesn't allow us to do that." said Cherry Hill, author of 25
books Qn horse training and horse care, including 1990's Horsekeeping on a Small Acreage. She also has a Web site with
horse care tips. www.horsekeeping.com
Hill is updating the book to deal with the difficulties faced by horse owners in places like Pinellas Park. The new edition will be
published after the first of the year.
While Hill's first reaction to eight horses per acre was "Wow. thars way too many." she said the necessary acreage varies
widely depending on the land. the horse and the care.
Hill was unable to suggest.the proper number for Pinellas Park because she has never visited the area. But, ideally, a horse
_ that's' expected 10 live off the land with no extra feed or hay should have at least 2 acres, she said. That's if the grass is lush.
In Colorado, where Hill lives, the equation would be more like one horse for every 20 or 30 acres because veg6tation is so
sparse.
so
~age 1 of 2
Horses that are stabled, exercised, fed hay and grain, can live in a much smaller area. But an owner needs to plan in advance
and then be diligent about care; upkeep 01 horses. stables and land~ and be thoughtful of the neighbors.
With ideal management, eight horses per acre could work, Hill said.
"There are just so many things to conSider," Hill said. "H you had eight horses per acre, what are you going to do with the
manure and the bedding?"
The most environmentally friendly solution. she said. is sti(:l.;ing it in a compost pile. But nonhorsey neighbors understandably
complah
"Who wants a compost pile In a residential neighborhood?" Hill asked. "These are big issues."
They are issues that are becoming more critical every day as urban sprawl encroaches on open land and as cities create
horse parlc.s in an effort to aocommodate horse lovers.
Gail Larson, ownerofSouthem Star Stables on 94th Avenue N, is well aware of the problems of horsekeeping on a small
property. She has 22 horses boarded on her 2.5 acres. Larson agreed with Hill that diligence is the key.
"I don't Ilke it dirty," said Larson, who lives on the premises.
That means stalls are cleaned daily. Manure is dropped into a dumpster, which is hauled away twice a week. Cobwebs. a
special bugaboo, are regularly cleared away. Dralnage Is maintained . boarders tell a tale of Larson going out one night in her
nightgown in a rainstorm to make sure there was no flooding.
"That's one of the cieanest barns I've ever seen." said Diane Smith. Smith, a former owner of Sunshine Feed Depot. and her
family board three horses at Southern Star.
The boarders also contribute to the well-run atmosphere. Larson said, because they come out regularly and ride their horses.
With regular riding, the horSes need less space to run.
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