The advantage of dust control in riding facilities are numerous and important. A dust free environment is healthier both for horses and the rider. The most cost effective solution to control dust is the installation of a watering system.

Riding over a dry surface is not only harmful to horses and rider but is also a major contributer to early disintegration of the arena. A dry surface quickly becomes "powdery" and the horses' hooves begin to make contact with the base, causing it to break down. For this reason, installers of riding surfaces recommend maintaining the right level of moisture in the surface both indoors and out doors. When water is applied to the arena, the sand particles swell and absorb the water and become minute flexible cusions. The "cusions" bind to each other and absorb some of the energy from the impact made from the horses' hooves. The result is that the horse has better footing and there is less concusive forces on the horses' legs and protects the arena's base.

Installing a watering system is not just a plumbing job. The understanding and knowledge of different surface characteristics is of crucial importance. For example, white silicad sand requires large quantities of water for optimum ride and sprinklers with heavy droplets are best for this surface. Older, finer surfaces require gentle application of water and a different kind of sprinkler.

At Sheepcote Equestrian Services we have accumulated years of experience, both as top level dressage riders who understand the needs of the horses and the knowledge of installing the best and most suitable equipment for the irrigation of riding surfaces.