Re: [RC] Barn/Fencing suggestions (long) - Ericka Nelson
i know many of you will disagree, but, when
you start to plant your trees, do not plant any junktrees. by junk trees,
i refer to willows, poplars and elms. while you may very well have enuf
water on your property for the poplars, they don't live more than 20 years
in perfect climates. and, if you do want to plant poplars, as they grow
fast, plant a second line nearby of oak as they will still be standing when your
poplars are dead, then you can cut down the poplars and enjoy your
oaks.
but, never plant willows, unless you have lots of
time on your hands to walk around and pick up all the weak branches they
drop.
better to wait for hardy trees to grow than to
plant fast growing junk trees.
Well, it finally happened. I was actually able to purchase some
property and if all goes well, we'll be living on it within the year.
Since this is bare land, we'll be starting from scratch with house, barn,
fencing, pasture, etc., and we want to do it "right." So, I'm looking
for input. Here's the story.....
Located in N. Butte County CA, about 10 miles outside of Chico city
limits and approximately 6 miles (with several turns) from the highway
with numerous other properties and fences in between. 20
acres, flat open land (solar panels?). No trees, large seasonal creek
running along one edge, several smaller run off areas throughout the
property. This area was used to graze cattle on and the soil is
pretty good for growing, but there is lava cap several feet down.. When
the wind blows, it screams through here (windmill power?). The summers
are generally hot (90--100+) and the winters are cold and wet (the rain
blows in sideways sometimes). We get snow here about once every 5
years, but not enough to stick for a more than a day. It generally does
not get below freezing for more than a few days and that is only
during the night time hours. We are located at approximately 125'
elevatio! n and the property sits on a very prolific aquifer (irrigation
for a few acres). Not in a flood zone and since there is no scrub,
brush, or trees, fire danger is minimal ( grass fire would quickly burn
past buildings as there will be no fuel for them)
3 horses now, but will probably increase to at least 5 by the time we're
done. I'm looking at getting a "pre-fab" type barn. I'm thinking a
shedrow would be the best for our situation, but I want the overhang to
be enclosed for those times when the rain blows in sideways.
Concrete aisle, stem wall foundation, roadbase or similar under mats in the
stalls. Separate hay barn. Comments?? Suggestions????
Fencing. Normally, I would want "solid" fencing around the
perimeter and do electric tape for the cross fencing. I have always been
fearful of them blowing through the tape and getting out onto a busy
road. Since we are so far from the highway, with several other
properties and fences between, I'm thinking about doing electric tape all
around. Comments?? Suggestions???
I know it sounds like I'm moving to the Serengeti Plains, but the best
part is that I'm only about 1 mile from the foothills across private land
and into thousands of acres of private land. The owner and I
already have an agreement. He told me where the access points are, but
did not give me permission to ride there. Therefore, if I choose
to trespass and get hurt, I will have a harder time suing him. ;
)
So, as you can see, I've got a lot of work cut out for me and would
appreciate info. from any and all. Who knows, maybe in a few years I can
manage a ride right out the back of my property. : )
