2016 Premier Fence

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Before you buy or build a fence…
Will the fence be moved? If so, how often?
3. Never moved
(permanent)
For boundary and subdivision fences
for land that’s owned by the user—and
whose usage is not likely to change!
Requires strong wood, steel or
fiberglass posts that support high-tensile
wires, woven wire, rope or wide tape—of
which one or more strands are electrified.
More reliable than other options but
more expensive to install. May require a
professional installer.
2. Moved each season or less
(semi-permanent)
Can be an interim barrier until a more
permanent fence is installed. This allows
folks to field-test fence and gate locations
to see what works best.
Usually consists of electrified net or
multiple electrified strands under low
tension—supported by stronger/thicker
posts than temporary fences.
Will need more maintenance attention
than permanent fences.
1. Moved daily or weekly
(temporary/portable)
Temporary or portable fences are
quick to install and remove.
To eliminate the need for large
end and corner posts, the fence
strands (whether single, multiple
or a mesh/netting) must be only
hand-tensioned. And they must be
electrified properly.
Portable fences are quick and easy to install.
Essential for rotational grazing.
Semi-permanent fences are usually taller and
require stronger, heavier posts than temporary fences.
Permanent fences use bigger/stronger materials
than other fences and take more time to install.
Don’t assume a fence will do something for which it was not designed
BEFORE YOU BUY OR BUILD A FENCE 07
There are 3 basic fence designs. Be aware of the capabilities and
limitations of each:
1. Fences that stop animals by pain (energized strands).
If you or dogs crowd animals against these fences the animals will break through.
The result is damaged fences, escaped animals and animals that have learned not to
fear (and thus avoid) a pain-barrier fence.
2. Fences that stop animals solely by physical strength.
We build these around corrals, handling yards and laneways. They work well for this
but are often too expensive for field situations.
3. Fences that stop animals by a combination of physical strength and pain
(energized strands). We prefer this for most permanent fences.
Energized wires are important:
a. To discourage animals (rams, bulls, stallions, billies) during breeding season.
b. To hold back mothers and their progeny desperate for each other during the days
of weaning.
c. To prevent animals from damaging posts and wires via scratching and rubbing
(hair removal or general itches).
Before you buy or build a fence continued on pp. 08–09