Fencing Management: Regulations, Predators and Maintenance

Table of Contents

1. Local Regulations
2. Predator Control
3. Fencing Maintenance
4. Other Fencing Management Recommendations
   • Electrical Fencing
   • Energizers
   • Posts, Insulators, and Gates
   • Protection From Lightning
5. Related Links

Local Regulations

A number of municipalities have bylaws on the use of electric fencing. Check at your local municipal office to avoid surprises.

Predator Control

Few fences are 100% predator proof. A 5-wire fence is the minimum for controlling dogs and wolves. Wires placed at 6 in., 12 in., 18 in., 26 in. and 36 in. from the soil are effective with alternating hot and ground wires. The bottom wire is a ground wire. A ground wire in contact with vegetation is not a drain on the charge. Using more wires provides better control but becomes costly. The use of 9 wires also works.

Fencing Maintenance

Maintenance adds years of life to a permanent fence. Loosen the wire tightener after the pasture season. This reduces stress on posts and insulators, and helps avoid cracks in the wire. Wire contracts in cold winter temperatures. Check the fence line in early spring for fallen trees, and for contact with old wire fencing, posts or trees. Check ground connections for dirt and rust build-up. Store energizers at temperatures above freezing when not in use.

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Related Links

... on forages and pastures, visit Forages and Pastures (OMAF)
... on weed control, order Publication 75 Guide to Weed Control: Forage Crops
... on agronomy for field crops, order Pub. 811 Agronomy Guide for Field Crops: Chapter 5 Forages
... on field crop protection, order Publication 812, Field Crop Protection Guide
... on livestock, visit Livestock (OMAF)

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