by BE SURE TO PROPERLY ANCHOR THESE STRUCTURE.
This DIY portable shade structure allowed me to launch a rotational grazing program for my sheep over summer at a fairly low cost. Because I found the hog paneling on sale, the total cost of one of these shade structures was just $60. It took 4 of these DIY shade structures to comfortably shade my 25 sheep. Every time I moved to a new paddock, I simply flattened the shade structures and pulled them to the new spot.
If the wind was set to be greater than 10MPH, I had to make sure I anchored each structure with tent stakes. Otherwise, these shade structures would literally fly across my pasture like a kite. Be aware of the deficiencies in this design, but also know that this list and tutorial will give you a good starting place for cheap, portable shade structures for a rotational grazing program.
Each portable shade structure requires:
16×4′ Feedlot Panel (you can go wider than 4′, but I wouldn’t go any longer than 16′)
Plastic Zip Ties
2 Lengths of 90″ long CHAIN Link
4 Metal Snap Hooks
Blue Polyester Tarp (might recommend choosing shade cloth instead. The blue tarp is waterproof, but does not have much UV tolerance)
4 Tent Stakes
I hope this helps you!
-the Shepherdess
“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1
I have been looking so hard for something that I could do by myself without getting overwhelmed. This looks like the perfect thing for my chickens. How tall does this stand? I’m wondering if I could put it over their little coop that is 5 feet tall. Either way this is a blessing, thank you!
I am so glad to hear this!! This stands about 3-4 foot tall (shoulder height on me and I’m 5’4″). If you want it to stand taller, just shorten the chain length and the width will turn into extra height!
-the Shepherdess
I had been looking for an easy way to provide shade to my sheep, and ended up making two of these. Easy-peasy to move, and great shade. But alas, the second morning, one of them was flattened, with the cattle panel bent into a J-shape. The following morning the other one was. The only thing I can figure is that the sheep tried to climb up them, and succeeded. Back to the drawing board.
Yes, this happens regularly at our place too.
There are 2 things that I do when it does:
1. The hog panel bends back into shape easily, so I’ll remove the snap hooks from one end and let it lay flat to regain shape.
2. Evaluate the need for shade. I notice that the sheep will be more prone to lay on top when it’s cloudy, so I’ll sometimes flatten them on cloudy days.
I have also seen some people use fiberglass culverts cut in half for a shade structure. Check that out if you want a solid structure and are ok with less portability :).
Hope this help!
-the Shepherdess
Great Great idea!!!
Thanks so much for sharing!
Do you have an idea for mobile water??? Something you can move with an atv or small equipment ? Buckets and water sloshing is rough… Also We have goats and the electric fence and netting just doesnt seem to do it…. have you ever worked with portable goat fencing panels?? Would love some advice – we are trying to move them around to spots on the farm that have weeds or need to be maintained. Thanks!!! Merrill
Great questions, Merrill! I will be posting a new video tonight that will discuss my watering system.
I don’t use the portable goat panels, but electric netting works great for pressuring sheep into eating extra brushy forage.
-the Shepherdess
I’m getting 3 baby goats that are 3 month old,
I’m trying to figure out if this would work for them during the warm months, so I can move them around my land and use the barn in the winter.
Thank you!
Hi Marian,
THank you so much for commenting! My goats climb a lot. I would add a center support if you use for goats :).