Digging a Drainage ditch (Shallow & Narrow)

[Dave5264]

Yes, per my initial post, i have a FEL and a Box Blade, and I was looking to see how best to use them (im new to this).

so thanks for the Idea on shortening up one side to engage it deeper...i didnt know that.

and, yes if properly crowned (per Mikes idea) the clay will allow it to runoff to the sides (outside the ring, where i want the drainage trench)

water table height shouldnt be a problem, its more the spring thaw/snow melt and the rain fall throughout the rest of the year i have to contend with. And yes your correct that a Mid winter thaw may be a problem with tiled drain pipe being frozen. All the more reason I think the Crown on the clay area is good. If i make the trench ouside the fenced area slightly lower (even after its back filled) it should keep the Ring clear even in a mid winter melt.

Great ideas and questions guys thanks alot for the input !!

[radioman]

Originally Posted by bpattie

I would think the clay if properly crowned would provide the runoff or drainage........no?

I am laughing here... no - not making fun . I have clay around here and EVERY spring and fall the clay swells up and gets soft and muddy. There are areas here where it like a bank but I can't drive on due to wet clay. It just makes a mess and sometimes get stuck. The only thing that seems to work is good drainage and 1-2 stones on top and let it sink in. Once the grass grows over, I can drive on it without fear of getting stuck only although it still might make a mess from some clay oozing thru the stones. I am not using it as a drive so its the only alternative I have here.

[Dave5264]

Yes, your right, the spring thaw is a whole new issue isnt it. Run off is one thing, but the way it turns soft is a problem..... ive got more planning to do, maybe i have to dig deeper and put in some other fill to keep it firm.

[drssg]

Do you know anyone locally that is well-experienced at putting in riding arenas? I think it would be worth-while to at least consult with a local expert that can take everything into account for your particular situation. Just the materials can be quite costly for a riding arena, and if something in the lower layers is not done correctly you can waste lots of money.

I ended up hiring a guy to put in our arena, and I checked out several of his other jobs beforehand. His implements had laser-integrated leveling control, and there is no way I could have done anything close to his quality of work.

Here's a cheap booklet that covers some of the basic ideas of arena building. Underfoot