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0 Access to shelter is fundamental and forms one of the key components of livestock management. Shelter means safety from unfavorable weather conditions, reduces stress, and increases productivity and overall health. As much as establishing permanent structures for sheltering livestock such as barns can require huge capital outlay, the trend of using heavy-duty tarpaulin sheets is cheap and portable. In this blog post, let me describe how and why Tarpaulin sheets can be beneficial, before illustrating and identifying parameters when using tarp for sheltering livestock.
Advantages of Using Tarpaulin Sheets for AnimalShelter
Cost-Effective
If at all there is one major advantage of tarpaulin sheets it is the fact that they are relatively cheaper to install than a permanent structure. As for farm tarps, they are more durable than regular ones and can last 5-8 years with a wearing and tear maintenance plan. Their overall price makes it easier to put up additional, transport, or even expand animal sections.
Portable and Flexible
Temp shelters particularly tarp sheltering provided in this case can easily be adapted, unlike permanent structures. Tarps can be easily relocated when their use is required in another area, becoming larger or smaller as required. This portability allows for the use of methods such as rotational grazing and utilization of space as and when it is required. Tarp poles and frames can also be removed/adjusted easily as well as replacing the tarp quickly and easily.
Quick and Easy Set-Up
Compared to the construction of more sophisticated structures such as sheds and barns, putting up a very simple shelter using a tarp is quick and easy. Sometimes you do not even need to add any supporting framework as the tarp can be anchored with stakes and ropes. Extra-large coverage areas are easier and even faster to set up if you use preconstructed tarp frame systems.
Fresh Air circulation and Ventilation
The lightweight and aeration property of the Canvas Tarpaulin makes it possible to maintain proper ventilation for the livestock. Fixed structures can at times be a problem in terms of ventilation but the side openings and permeable nature of the tarp allow sufficient cross circulation. One of the great things about tarps is that they can be raised above the ground if there is a need for more air ventilation.
All-Weather Protection
Contemporary agricultural tarps are intended for usage beyond climate fluctuations and extended direct sunlight, intense UV radiation, and wind-blown dust and sand to harsh weather, heavy rain and snow loads as well as low and high temperatures. Compound materials such as layers of fabrics with UV stability effectively safeguard the livestock in either hot or cold climates although the fabric is waterproof.
Points to Consider When Using Tarps for Livestock Shelter
Size and Type of Livestock
The first one is to establish what kind of animals will look for shelter and in what number. The size of the tarp chosen should be big enough to provide the animals with all the needed space, air circulation, and free movement. The best approach for measuring your animals for proper sizing is when they are lying down. Some of them, such as framework height, depend on the type of livestock.
Local Climate and Weather
The altitude, average temperature, and temperature range within your climate zone mean you need this tarp fabric, this seam strength, this tear resistance as a minimum, UV rating required if you want your tarp to last. For windy locations then extra ropes/ straps are necessary to fasten the tarp properly on the ground irrespective of the climate. The kind of climate also determines where and in what direction the shelter should be positioned.
Moreover, this framework and anchoring system are the core elements of the Concept and are distinct from the support activities.
Regardless of how well designed and engineered, the tarp has to be stretched over a supporting structure and the latter defines how much load, wind, or rain it can take. Cattle and horses require a strong timber/steel structure that is well-established on the ground. Low-cost options for installation are high-tensile electric fencing wires or t-posts. Ropes, nylon straps, and ground anchors could be other ways used to add stability.
Tarp Maintenance Requirements
Despite claiming a lifespan of 5-8 years, tarp material will last longer if checked and maintained regularly and required repairs affected. Main maintenance procedures include shaking off collected dirt, removing moisture trapped under the cover to avoid mold, securing/soldering free moving hooks, mending minor holes//rips, and periodically re-applying protective sealants to enhance waterproofing. Minimize the use of solvents based on petroleum.
Conclusion
Flexible and cheap use of tarpaulin sheets serves as an affordable shelter rather than a hard and fixed shelter for livestock producers. If properly anchored and properly inspected for wear and tear frequently, high-quality agricultural tarp can act as stable protective enclosing for horses, cattle, sheep, other livestock, etc. When measuring and installing the tarp for sheltering livestock it will be important to consider the factors outlined herein to arrive at the right site selection and weather protection hence the desired health and production of the animals.
Also Read: https://timesofeconomics.com/
