TLC FOR PASTURE TREES

Trees offer many benefits---not only do they provide shade and shelter for the horses who live in pastures, but they can help prevent soil erosion and provide picturesque scenery. When the behavior of horses begins to threaten the health of pasture trees, then, it’s wise to take steps to protect them.

Horses rarely damage trees but when they do, they usually strip the bark. They may begin to eat bark out of boredom or lack of adequate forage--both of which can be remedied by providing free-choice hay. At the first sign of tree-nibbling, make sure your horse has access to lots of quality hay---that may be enough to halt the behavior.

Some horses, however, develop a taste for specific trees and continue to strip bark even when hay is available. In those cases, you’ll need to take