10 Tips for Spring Cleaning

by Lisa Kiley – published in Saddle Up! Magazine May 2023

Spring has finally arrived, and while there might still be a few nights of frost warnings, there have been some really beautiful days that remind us warm weather season is on the way.  It is easy to get really busy this time of year, but with a few more hours of daylight, it is a great time to get more projects done.  Here are a few things to think about when planning spring cleaning around the barn:

1. Pasture Maintenance – The grass has been growing, but before you turn horses out this season, consider a few steps that will help keep your pastures in great shape.  First, harrowing can help lift grasses that have been laying flat all season, allowing for new growth to come up.  It will also help to break up areas where leaves have gathered or break up manure clods.  Monitor turn out time to prevent issues with laminitis or colic until your horse has had a chance to acclimate to grass, especially if they have been on a dry lot all winter.

2. Fencing – It is always a good idea to walk fence lines and test electric before turning horses out on a new pasture.  Keeping a close eye on the condition of the fence will help prevent horses from getting out or getting injured.   Making sure that the fence is safe and reliable is important.  Spring is also a great time to think about new fencing projects or adding fencing for rotational grazing, which is a great way to make the most of your pastures and keep them and your horses healthy through the season. 

3. Water Tanks & Buckets – You may have already put up your heated bucket for the season, but spring is a good time to evaluate your watering system.  Does each pasture have a clean and reliable water source?  Scrubbing buckets and tanks should be done on a regular basis, but now is a good time to put in a little extra elbow grease.  If there were any issues with watering over the winter, from frozen water hydrants to cracked hoses, now is the time to put a plan in place or replace broken equipment. 

4. Mud Management – Spring can be a wet season and wherever there is rain and horses, there is mud.  Manage mud with products like mud grids in areas where mud already exists, especially around gate areas, feeders, water tanks and ‘dry’ lots.  Looking for a more permanent solution?  Paddock Slabs can be installed with ground preparation and backfilled with your material of choice.  Planning in the spring for a summer or early fall installation is a great idea. 

5. Landscaping – Often farms overlook the landscaping of the barn because there are just so many other chores to do, but adding trees and bushes strategically can actually have a functional purpose in addition to adding beauty.  Tree rows can become wind breaks or add shade and bushes can help soak up water around the barn.  Just make sure that if you are planting, you choose varieties that are non-toxic to your horses. 

6. Stalls – Horses may have spent more time in shelter over the winter, so a bit of maintenance and cleaning may be in order.  Pick a warm day when horses can be left outside.  Strip stalls out and then clean down stall walls.  De-cobb web, then use a power washer, or wash walls by hand.  Adjust mats and level out stalls.  Make sure to let everything dry completely before adding fresh bedding and bringing the horses back in. 

7. Feed Room – Over the winter, feed rooms can become cluttered and disorganized.  It is important for the health and safety of the horses to ensure that their food sources are kept in a rodent-free environment.  Doing a thorough cleaning of the feed room will help keep pests at bay and let you know if there is any rodent mitigation that needs to be done in this area.  This is also a great time to re-organize supplements and medications and get rid of anything that may be expired. 

8. Tack Room – Warmer weather can mean that you will be riding more and having your equipment in good working order is essential.  Take the time to clean and inspect tack to ensure that it is safe and functional.  If things are broken, get them repaired or replaced.  If you have items that you aren’t using, consider selling or donating them to free up space and cut down on clutter.  Using saddle racks, hooks and blanket bars can help keep your tack and equipment organized and in great shape.

9. Round Pens – Are you starting horses this spring, or maybe just haven’t thrown your leg over your horse in a while? Adding a round pen can be a great way to get your horse ready for work in a safe and contained way.  There are many options for round pens, choose weights and heights that are substantial and look for squared off corners and horse safe latches. 

10. Travel Preparation – If you will be hitting the road this season, now is the time to make sure that your rig is in good shape.  Getting a tune up on your truck is a great start, but don’t forget about TLC for your trailer.  Check the tires and spares, inspect lights, breaks and flooring.  Stow an emergency safety kit and consider joining a group that offers roadside assistance in the case of an emergency. 

We hope that you have a fun and productive spring at your farm.  If you need any help with projects this year, give us a call (740) 363-6073, email us info@cashmans.com, or chat with us online!