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Written by: Jessica Konopinski
Published on: 05/21/2025
Pasture management is one of those topics that varies widely from horse owner to horse owner. While the general rule of thumb is two acres per 1,000-pound horse, that's not always realistic—especially in areas with limited space or when horses are turned out together. [1]
In a perfect world, rotational grazing across multiple pastures would be the gold standard. But since that’s not always feasible, many owners are left choosing between picking or dragging their paddocks. So, which option is best? Let’s break down the pros and cons.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about managing manure in your paddocks? If you said “parasites,” you’re absolutely on the right track. While manure might be unsightly, the bigger issue is its impact on pasture quality and parasite spread. Horses are surprisingly smart—they tend to designate areas for grazing and others for manure. Still, regular picking helps break the parasite cycle and keeps paddocks looking clean and maintained. [3]
The downsides? Picking paddocks is time-consuming and physically demanding. And then there's the issue of where the manure goes. If you don’t have access to a manure removal service, you’ll need a system for storing or spreading it elsewhere—both of which require consistent effort. That said, many horse owners swear by picking. If you can stick to a routine, it’s one of the most effective ways to keep your horses and pastures healthy.
If your back started aching just reading the last section, don’t worry—you’ve got options. While picking is highly effective, dragging your paddocks can also be beneficial. Contrary to popular belief, dragging doesn’t necessarily increase parasite spread. In fact, it exposes manure to sunlight and air, which can help kill parasite eggs and larvae. Timing is everything here: dragging during hot, dry conditions is most effective.
Another bonus? Manure can act as a natural fertilizer. Spreading it helps return nutrients to the soil, encouraging stronger forage growth. However, since horses often create “latrine areas,” those spots can become overrun with weeds and unpalatable grass. [3] Regular dragging helps even this out and prevents buildup.
No single method works for everyone, and that’s okay. Beyond picking and dragging, there are other tools and services out there. Manure removal companies, paddock vacuums, and specialized equipment like “paddock cleaners” make maintenance easier—though they come at a cost. [3]
At the end of the day, the best method is the one you can afford, stay consistent with, and that suits your personal needs. For some, that means picking. For others, it might be dragging—or even a combination of both. The most important thing? Keep your pastures clean, your horses healthy, and your management routine sustainable.
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✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
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Jessica is a brand consultant who brings awareness and intention to equestrian and pet platforms. As a former collegiate equestrian athlete and animal lover, Jessica leads with passion and experience through her writing and brand work for companies who advocate for creating a difference in their space. When she's not riding her horse or walking her dog (with iced coffee in hand), you can find her sharing her love for health and wellness with others and integrating these practices in her everyday work.
