Horsefeathers

IEC Mare Motel: Project Update

Initially, our project scope involved removing all contaminated footing from the stalls, filling large holes with clean soil, and covering them with 3-4 inches of decomposed granite (dg). Additionally, we installed a 4"x8" pressure-treated beam at the 12-foot mark, dividing each stall into a covered and uncovered section. The covered area received stall mats, while the uncovered area was layered with 2 inches of washed concrete sand. This setup aims to provide a comfortable environment for the horses, minimize wear on the dg, improve drainage, and offer a sand-free area for feeding and resting. The footing of all 14 stalls was completed on Thursday, April 25. 

Previously, all automatic waterers were located at the rear of the stalls, which posed challenges for the horses during rain and led to algae buildup. After consulting with boarders, we decided to relocate the waterers to the front of the stalls for easier access, maintenance and repairs, as well as to facilitate footing repairs.

The Mare Motel gutters have been deteriorating over the years. After extensive research and evaluation, we finally found a vendor capable of installing new gutters and adding multiple downspouts for efficient drainage. We are still completing work on the drains to one downspout in the side aisleway, which will be completed next week. 

We discovered a significant buildup of silt in the walkway between the mare motel and the hillside, causing flooding into the stalls and aisleways. To mitigate this, we hand-dug part of the walkway to redirect water away from the panels and prevent further corrosion. We're still working on this project, including improvements to the adjacent walkway next to the hillside.

Additionally, we addressed flooding issues behind the mare motel stalls by scraping the area to create proper drainage paths. In front of the Mare Motel, we are working on a drainage ditch that flows to a drainpipe, leading to the retention basins on the other side of the road. This project is also still being completed. Railroad ties were placed in front of the drainage area to ensure that boarders and visitors do not trip or fall. 

Throughout the construction, we've closely monitored the horses and maintained communication with owners to ensure their comfort and safety. We appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation as we work toward completing this project and providing a safe environment for our equine residents.

Article image above contains photos of the Mare Motel Project.

IEC Manure Boxes: Maintenance Completed

The manure boxes at IEC have completed regular maintenance and are once again sealed and solid. These boxes are located behind each barn, where the manure is dumped from the boarders. Staff in tractors collect the manure every day and take it to the compost area. We replaced some wood beams and the plywood interior and sealed the wood for longevity.

CTWC and IEC Weeds: Clean Up Begins

With the recent rains, both equestrian facilities have an abundance of weeds, which the maintenance staff will be clearing through the end of this month and into May.