Materials
Gather these supplies
- Known food-grade open-head barrel
- Continuous U-channel edge trim rated for outdoors
- Stainless bolts and large washers for optional handles
- Two smooth carry handles, optional
Free step-by-step project guide
Make a Smooth Half-Barrel Hay Catch
A cleaned, safely cut catch tray beneath a separate wall-mounted hay feeder, inspired by our family’s setup.
What you are making
A useful project with a defined stopping point.
Create a shallow removable tub with rolled or capped edges that catches usable fallen hay without becoming the feeder itself.
- Time
- 2–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Advanced / get help
- Estimated cost
- $15–$60
- Finished size
- One barrel half, trimmed to fit below feeder
Tools
Set up the work area
- Marker and flexible measuring tape
- Jigsaw with plastic blade or qualified cutting service
- Drill
- Deburring tools
- Eye, hearing and hand protection
Measurements
Mark before cutting
- Cut line: exactly around barrel midpoint
- Edge cap: continuous on every cut edge
- Clearance: no trapped head or leg gap
- Position: removable without entering animal space
Build it in order
Step-by-step instructions
Read the entire plan before making the first cut or hole. The check under each step tells you when it is ready to move forward.
- 01
Confirm the barrel
Use only a thoroughly cleaned food-grade barrel with known contents and no cracks.
- 02
Plan the enclosure fit
Measure beneath the existing safe feeder and identify every possible head, horn and leg gap.
- 03
Mark a continuous midpoint
Use a flexible tape and marker to create a level cut line around the barrel.
- 04
Cut under control
Clamp the barrel and cut slowly with suitable protection—or use a shop equipped for plastic cutting.
- 05
Deburr and cap
Round the entire edge, wash away shavings and press on continuous outdoor edge trim.
- 06
Place and observe
Set the tray below—not attached as—the feeder and supervise a full herd interaction.
Use and maintenance
Keep it useful
- Empty damp or soiled hay promptly.
- Remove and scrub the tray as part of feeder cleaning.
- If goats climb inside it, discontinue use or change the setup.
Safety boundaries
Know when to stop
- Cut plastic can be razor-sharp until fully finished.
- Do not make the tray a load-bearing feeder.
- Horned goats require extra entrapment review.
Build alongside our family
See the projects and systems behind the ranch.
These written plans give you the order and measurements. Our YouTube videos show the ordinary problem-solving, repairs and family work that inspired this library.
Use the rest of the material
More food-grade barrel guides
Advanced / get help · Half a dayConvert a Food-Grade Barrel into a Covered Rain Collector
Moderate · 2–3 hoursBuild a Half-Barrel Container Garden
Advanced / get help · 2–4 hoursPlan a Mobile Orchard-Water ReserveReused materials and sites vary. Inspect every material, follow the manufacturer’s tool instructions and use appropriate protective equipment. Stop and ask a qualified person when structural loads, electrical work, pressurized plumbing, drinking water, hazardous coatings, animal security or local requirements exceed your experience.