How to Design a Livestock Fence
Fencing for livestock needs to be sturdy and functional. Fences are designed to restrict movement by forming a physical or psychological barrier. Before starting construction, consider the variables involved. Contemplate the number and type of animals to be enclosed by the fence. Livestock such as horses may need a more visible fence, whereas slower-moving cattle will do fine with material like barbed wire.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Choose a type of fencing material. Physical barriers are created from materials that are strong enough to prevent or discourage an animal from escaping. According to the Iowa State University Cooperative Extension, wood, woven wire, cable and welded panels are considered physical barriers. Psychological barriers discourage escape by inflicting pain, but are not strong enough to physically contain an animal. Electric fencing and barbed wire are two forms of psychological barriers. Some may choose a combination of both types. Electric fencing is a popular psychological barrier because of its ease of construction and relatively low cost.
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2
Determine the height and spacing of fence and materials based on the animals that you wish to contain and the location of your enclosure. A fence may need to be higher if restraining bulls, horses or other strong, excitable animals. Taller fences may desirable when there is livestock on both sides or the enclosure is located along the road. This may also be a consideration for a physical barrier. Whether using electric wire or other materials, use four strands spaced no more than a foot apart to complete a 4-foot tall fence. Distance from the ground may need to be lower and spacing decreased for grazing goats and sheep. This in turn may increase the number of strands of wire needed to complete the desired height of the fence.
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Map out the area where the enclosure will be constructed. Draw out several options and keep in mind any restrictions that might be placed on your layout, such as minimum setbacks from water sources and wells.
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Consider where shelters may be built. Establish if all animals are going to run together or be separated. The number of separate enclosures will dictate the number of shelters needed. If all animals are running together, catch pens or smaller enclosures may need to be created to move livestock for handling purposes.
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Specify gate locations. Several gates may be needed to access the enclosure from different areas. Or, if several pens are created, each will need a gate through which animals and enter and exit. Plan on purchasing gates wide enough for equipment such as trucks, trailers or tractors to fit through if necessary.
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Ensure easy access to water. All animals require constant access to fresh water. If pens are being created that are located far from a water supply, then labor may be intensive. An underground water system may need to be installed before fence construction if water is not available.
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