how to protect hay in feeder

nihicib2

Hi all,

Trying to solve a dilemma here, we have a round feeder like the one in the pic attatched (no chains in the middle). We put a round bale of hay into the feeder for the horses and goats in the yard, the problem I have it how to protect the hay from the rain and yet let the horses be able to eat from it.

I have tried a tarp but it either blows all over the place or the horses can't get past the tarp to eat the hay, the goats are fine they can eat from the gaps in the feeder. I have also cut out a circle of ply to sit on top of the bale, like a hat but once the hay is eaten down far enough its at the level of the feeder so they cant get at it. They will not eat from the gaps like the goats and the gaps in our feeder are not as tall or large as the one on the picture, Im assuming its a sheep feeder.

Any ingenious ideas out there as to how to solve this problem, I know this isn't a horse feeder but its what Ive got and I just want to stop the hay getting soaked by the torrential rain we've had recently and probably more to come.

Thanks

lab man

ciotog8 wrote:

Hi all the previous threads have been very helpful in updating all on the current share issues at Kerry Co op. It would be good if this thread just focuses on the core issues and not a slanging match. We need to unite to move forward as a whole. look forward to the comments and input. Mod note:The future discussion of this issue is still being debated atm. Please be patient while discussions are on going and we will post a clarification in the next few days. Thanks in advance,

that's a wrong type ring feeder for horses firstly the ring feeder for horses the gaps are totally open every second gap so the horse can lift his head straight up of the feeder , I'd say you'll have to make one with galvinise sheeting

nihicib2

lab man wrote: »

that's a wrong type ring feeder for horses firstly the ring feeder for horses the gaps are totally open every second gap so the horse can lift his head straight up of the feeder , I'd say you'll have to make one with galvinise sheeting

Yes I know its not a horse feeder, Im just trying to see if anyone has an idea as to how to protect the hay without making or getting another one. Thanks.

lab man

as I said galv sheeting but could be a balls if horse got a nick and started bleeding I suppose u could give small amounts of hay for a while

kk.man

Google haybell from JFC ..problem solved.

nihicib2

kk.man wrote: »

Google haybell from JFC ..problem solved.

They look a great job but at €390 before delivery its a bit too steep for me

jimini0

A trampoline cover? The bouncy part and hook it onto the top should keep out some of the rain

Good loser

What about removing the chains, putting pallet in feeder under bale and having feeder beside ditch for shelter from prevailing wind.

_Brian

nihicib2 wrote: »

They look a great job but at €390 before delivery its a bit too steep for me

I’m sure you could make similar from an ibc, they can be got for €50

Odelay

nihicib2 wrote: »

They look a great job but at €390 before delivery its a bit too steep for me

Just go for the jfc instead of messing around with might dos. I got one and haven’t looked back. €380 collected from feed merchants. A lot cheaper than possible cuts and stitching.

nihicib2

Good loser wrote: »

What about removing the chains, putting pallet in feeder under bale and having feeder beside ditch for shelter from prevailing wind.

There's no chains in mine, and the bale does sit on a pallet but its in the middle of the yard so they can all get at the hay, that's why I want to keep the rain off it

nihicib2

_Brian wrote: »

I’m sure you could make similar from an ibc, they can be got for €50

I actually have one lying about I might try that thanks

nihicib2

Odelay wrote: »

Just go for the jfc instead of messing around with might dos. I got one and haven’t looked back. €380 collected from feed merchants. A lot cheaper than possible cuts and stitching.

I would if I had that money lying spare, but unfortunately I dont.