Going green around your horse farm will help save money, energy, and time. As an added bonus, you will have the satisfaction of protecting our natural resources and our environment.
Reduce Waste
The easiest way to reduce the amount of wood shavings used is to pasture board your horse. If this is not an option, consider recycled newspaper bedding, or pelleted bedding. The use of stall mats can also help reduce the amount of bedding necessary to provide a comfortable surface for your horse.
Automatic watering systems are expensive to install, but in addition to reducing water waste, they cut down on chore time and ensure fresh water for horses. Use a water saving spray nozzle when bathing horses. Consider natural insect repellents and cleansers for your horse to avoid ground water contamination.
Buy supplements, grain, and other products in bulk in order to avoid packaging waste. Purchasing supplies sold locally avoids excess packaging as a result of shipping. Purchasing feed grown locally reduces energy use from transportation.
Invest in energy saving light bulbs. Do chores as much as possible during daylight hours. When choosing barn design, opt for those with plenty of windows to allow for natural lighting and air flow. Remember to unplug small appliances when not in use, and invest in a solar operated fence charger.
Reuse Materials
Supplement containers are very useful around a barn and in the house as storage containers. Hay twine may find new life around a barn braided into ropes, and even used as halters. Consider purchasing used tack whenever possible, and head to the tack sale with your own used items. Many horse rescues are more than happy to accept donations of horse items, and you may even be able to get a tax deduction for your donation.
Recycle Resources
Keep recycling bins handy for paper and plastic around the barn. Use a compost pile for organic waste, and contact your county extension office for advice about environmentally friendly manure management. They can explain in detail your local regulations concerning the disposal of manure and bedding. Check for facilities in your area that will recycle used bedding into a fuel source. If you only have one or two horses at home, you may be able to find a local farmer or gardener who will happily use your horse manure for fertilizer.
Reach Out
Join local recycling and environmental awareness groups in your area. These groups are excellent sources of ideas and support for a green lifestyle. Network within your local horse community to share ideas and find new uses for unwanted horse items.
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