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Discussion on Size Of Paddock Area
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Posted on Friday, Jun 30, 2000 - 4:41 pm:
I am considering the purchase of a 2.5-acre paddock adjacent to a 6-stall barn that I already own in Illinois. This paddock is fenced and fully irrigated via sprinklers. The ground cover is currently very lush since it has not been grazed for several years (i.e., it looks like someone's front yard).
I know that many variables must be considered in order to accurately estimate pasture requirements and plan pasture management. However, I would like to know whether 2.5 acres would normally be considered enough paddock for a 10yo riding mare.
More simply put, would grazing one mare exhaust and destroy 2.5 acres of ground cover, given the seasonal conditions in Central Illinois?
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Posted on Friday, Jun 30, 2000 - 6:34 pm:
I live in northwest Tennessee which has a climate similar to yours. Depending on the type of grass in this pasture I would think that it would be more than adequate for one horse. In my area you could probably graze two or three mature horses on the same area depending on the season and grass. Why not cross fence it into two or four segments? By rotating the horse regularly, the other segments would have ample opportunity to recover especially since you can fertilize and water when needed. You might also have your local county farm agent check the pasture and give you some suggestions.
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