Hay is a constant in any horse owner’s life. Forage (hay and grass) should be the bulk of most horses’ diets. And unless they have year-round access to acres upon acres of green grass, much of that forage will be served as hay. That begs the question: Where and how do you store it all?
Whether you’re running a large barn or managing a small property, the right hay storage setup will ensure your hay stays fresh, dry, and free from contaminants. Poorly stored hay can mold, spoil, and even become a fire hazard. So, let’s dive into some practical advice on how and where to store hay on a horse farm.
Fire Risk: Don’t Let it Go Up in Smoke
Did you know one of the biggest risks when storing hay is fire? Improperly stored hay—particularly when it’s still curing—can self-combust due to heat buildup from moisture within the bales. This is why ventilation around hay bales is essential. When storing hay, make sure the area is as cool and dry as possible, and stack bales loosely to allow air circulation.
If you have limited storage, don’t be tempted to store hay near heat sources or in tightly enclosed areas. A dry, airy environment—such as a shed with good air flow—is your best bet when it comes to reducing fire risk.
Pro Tip: If possible, store hay away from your equine dwelling areas rather than in a hay loft above horses’ stalls. If a fire does break out, you’ll want to have a safe distance between your hay storage and other structures.
Efficient Storage for Small Properties
On smaller horse farms, space is often limited, and you might not have the luxury of a large barn or dedicated hay storage area. Here are some ways to maximize your storage and keep things organized:
- Vertical Storage: If you’re tight on floor space, think vertically. Stacking bales can help you store more in less space. Stack the bales on wooden pallets or skids in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of moisture damage and mold growth.
- Outdoor Storage Options: If you’re storing hay outside, a good-quality tarp or a custom-made shelter can provide protection from rain and snow. Look for a tarp that is both waterproof and breathable. Bales should be elevated off the ground to prevent moisture absorption from the soil.
- Sheds or Carports: A small shed or carport can work well for storing hay. You might need to add extra vents to sheds to maintain airflow.
Hay Quality: Keep It Fresh
Hay doesn’t last forever, and if it’s stored improperly, it can lose its nutritional value or even become unsafe for your horse.
- Keep it dry: If you haven’t figured it out by now, moisture is hay’s enemy. Whether you’re storing hay indoors or outdoors, make sure the area stays dry. If you’re using a shed, consider adding a concrete pad, a layer of gravel, or some sort of drainage system to keep the area dry.
- Avoid sunlight: Too much sun exposure can lower hay’s nutritive value, especially the vitamin A and other essential nutrients your horse needs. Store hay in a shaded area or under a cover that blocks direct sunlight.
- Bulk storage strategies: If you’re buying hay in bulk (often the most cost-effective option), rotate your stock so you’re feeding the older bales first. This helps ensure you don’t end up with hay that’s too old or of poor quality. Keep track of when the hay was delivered and how long it’s been stored. You don’t want to feed hay that’s been sitting for a year at the back of the shed.
Build Your Own Hay Storage Solution
Building a hay storage area from scratch might be the best solution and allows you to customize the space to your needs. Locate a flat, dry area that’s ideally 100 feet from your horse barn. It should be accessible to vehicles, especially the hay delivery truck.
The size of the structure depends on the hay type (round vs. square bale) and how much you plan to store. As a general rule, you’ll need 250 cubic feet (multiply the building’s length, width, and height to get this figure) per ton of small square bales and 310 cubic feet per ton of large round bales.1 Install a concrete or crushed rock base; atop it, the actual storage structure can be as extravagant or as minimalist as you want. A well-ventilated, prefabricated shed serves this purpose well. Or, you can erect a three-sided shed or carport and cover the hay with a reinforced plastic tarp for added protection from the elements.
Take-Home Message
You might have to get creative with your hay storage, particularly on small properties. Just make sure the site is clean, dry, and ventilated. Keep the space tidy by sweeping away loose and nonedible hay regularly.
1. Sizing and Siting Hay Barns, MU Extension
Related Reading:
- How To Find the Best Hay for Your Horse
- How To Inspect Your Horse’s Hay
- How To Measure Your Horse’s Feed and Hay
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