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PRESERVATION OF COUNTRY
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The following hunt field etiquette guidelines will ensure amicable landowner relations and uphold a favorable image of foxhunting. Although no one prefers to have his property damaged at all, the Hunt reasonably expects to pay for nominal, accidental damages. Most property damage emanates from ignorance and inconsideration. Resentment lingers on after damages have been paid fcc The most common damage occurs by horses hooves cuttng up soft ground, crop trampling, and fence gates left open. PASTURES Ordinarily the Field may gallop freely in pastures. Relatively wet seasons preclude galloping, and low-lying ground should be completely avoided. Should a tendency to cut up sod become evident, if necessary the gait should be reduced to a walk. To prevent damage, farmers may choose to keep their own animals out of a particular pasture. Should the Hunt cause damage, imagine his dismay. HAY FIELDS Hay fields require more caution than pastures. Holes cut by hooves cause rough movement for farm implements. ALFALFA FIELDS Alfalfa is a valuable crop. Although the possibility of damage is no greater than with timothy or clover, farmers tend to be particularly sensitive about alfalfa. Respect their priorities. Only ride along the perimeter of alfalfa fields. WINTER WHEAT FIELDS Winter wheat is recognizable by its regular pattern and brilliant shade of green. Should the footing be dry, damage will be avoided; if wet, damage will result. Only ride along the perimeter of winter wheat fields. GRAINS After harvesting, grain fields are no more susceptible to damage than hay fields. Grain fields could have, however been newly seeded. Should clover have been seeded, it is impossible to determine whether the fields will be plowed in the spring or raised for hay. If plowing has begun, nothing will damage the field. CORN FIELDS After corn has been cut and shocked, or picked by machine, little or no damage may be done. When standing corn is ridden through, bent stalks and fallen ears result. SOY BEAN FIELDS It is impossible to avoid damage. Stay completely away from soy bean fields LAWNS Riding on lawns is strictly forbidden, possibly posing the greatest anguish within the community. Residential homeowners strongly resent horses and hounds using their property as a hunt field without permission. FENCE GATES Reclose all fence gates which were found closed. Replace any fence rails which have been dropped even though stock may not be utilizing the pasture. Today, an open gate could let out stock tomorrow. IN GENERAL The Hunt Staff may occasionally cut across a field to reach hounds. Do not follow suit. One horse may cause little damage; twenty horses significant damage. |
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