How Does an Arena Leveller Work?

Arena Leveller Functionality

An arena leveller, also known as a menage grader, plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of horse riding arenas. Understanding how an arena leveller works helps to ensure that these surfaces provide optimal performance for various equestrian activities.

Functional Components of an Arena Leveller

• Tines: Graders are commonly equipped with adjustable tines that delve into the arena's surface. These tines are crucial for breaking up compacted material and redistributing the footing evenly across the arena. It is essential to set the tines at the correct depth. If set too deeply, they can damage the underlying layers, which might be costly to repair. Conversely, if the tines are too high, they will fail to effectively rework the surface material.
• Rollers: Following the tines, rollers are often used to smooth out the surface after it has been aerated and loosened. This helps to eliminate uneven spots and compact the surface lightly to provide a consistent texture and firmness that is safe for both horse and rider.

Operating an Arena Leveller

Depending on the design, arena levellers can be either towed behind a vehicle or mounted on a tractor. Towable models are versatile and can be operated using a quad bike, small tractor, or even a 4x4 vehicle depending on the size and weight of the leveller. For thorough maintenance, the process of levelling might include additional steps like measuring the depth of the arena footing regularly. This ensures that the high-traffic areas and the overall surface stay consistent in depth and composition.

Regular Maintenance Using an Arena Leveller

To maintain an arena effectively:

• Regular grading is required, especially focusing on high-traffic areas such as entrances and the tracks that horses frequently use.
• The leveller should be used to redistribute material from areas where it tends to gather, such as along the edges, back towards the center of the arena.
• It's also important to check and manage the moisture levels of the surface to prevent it from becoming too hard or dusty, which can be injurious to the horse and uncomfortable for the rider.

Best Practices for Arena Maintenance

• Clearing Debris and Organic Matter: Continuously remove droppings, leaves, and other debris that can degrade the surface quality. Regular removal helps in maintaining the stability and moisture level of the footing.
• Ensuring Proper Drainage: Good drainage is crucial, especially in outdoor arenas, to prevent waterlogging and to maintain the ideal moisture content in the footing, which in turn aids in dust control and freeze prevention.
• Routine Footing Checks: Utilize a depth probe to routinely check for any inconsistencies or compacted areas in the footing. Any discrepancies should be recorded and addressed during the levelling process.
• Watering: Regular watering helps maintain the footing’s moisture level, particularly in dry conditions, reducing dust and maintaining pliability of the base materials.

Using an arena leveller correctly not only prolongs the life of the arena but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable riding experience. The versatility of modern levellers, such as adjustments in tine depth and optional attachments like side-scratchers for edge maintenance, makes them an essential tool for any serious equestrian facility. Regular, thoughtful maintenance using these tools will keep your arena in top condition, enhancing both performance and safety.