Hunt Field Etiquette
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 cutting 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
Close 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. |
