My area is mainly DG. I'm fixing some errosion which is better for my stalls and turnouts: DG or sand?

Question

My area is mainly DG. I'm fixing some errosion which is better for my stalls and turnouts: DG or sand?

Answer 1

I think your question is leaving most of us confused about the soil DG?

Answer 2

Sand is porous, quiet, non-slip, and relatively soft but does not pack so must be raked smooth regularly. In some climates it holds damp and encourages fungus. In other climates it can be rather drying on hooves. It is readily removed when mucking stalls so must be replaced. Sand colic could be a problem if horses eat much dropped food from kicked up bedding.

Decomposed granite is often road base mix so it packs well,  levels easily and is also porous. Proper packing is imperative or holes develop especially with weaving or pawing animals.

Some areas offer quarry waste so the exact mix depends on the area and types of rock. Be sure you know what is being offered and the actual particle size range because several grades may be available ranging from large to very fine. Some grades compact so well they are hard on a standing horse but are good under rubber mats.

Sand is more forgiving but needs more tending.

Answer 3

Sand is easier to muck out than DG over straw and less likely to get stones twix hoof and shoe.  RScott