Working Ranch Magazine Summer 2025

pasture management BY LORETTA SORENSEN Fence Wise Know when to use

permanent, electric, and virtual fencing.

ould it enhance your ro tational grazing system? Each producer requires different fencing for their production goals, and each site on an operation may need different fencing solutions.

Gallagher’s eShepherd System

PHOTO COURTESY OF GALLAGHER FENCING

PERMANENT “Permanent fencing is a bit more traditional,” Liebergreen says. “There are certainly improvements, but fenc ing contractors tend to stick with what they like and what they know works. Gallagher stays close to this part of the market, so we know what contractors need and when.” Among the elements producers should consider when selecting fenc ing materials are species, production system, terrain, and access to power. Additional considerations include the distance or area to fence, support, labor, and cost. Every electric fence requires an ener gizer. Energizers vary significantly in quality, electrical output, and cost. Fence suppliers should provide input regarding size and power when select ing the appropriate energizer. Choosing an inexpensive energizer that doesn’t provide adequate power may result in greater costs over the long term. Energizers require suitable elec tric input (joules), low residence or low impedance, proper electrical grounding, and some form of light ning diverter. A poorly grounded energizer is the most likely cause of electric output failure.

Among the advantages of electric fencing are lower cost, easier instal lation, and the option to relocate the fence. Electric fencing is more adaptable to rugged terrain and can enhance effectiveness when com bined with physical fences, acting as a further barrier to animals. Electric fencing is also an advantage in deterring predators. One disadvantage of electric fenc ing is the increased need for mainte nance. This can be balanced by using compression springs, which allow the fence to absorb impacts better. Well constructed corners and supports also help reduce maintenance require ments and extend the fence’s life. Liebergreen says advances in fenc ing technology occur regularly and give producers enhanced or new fenc ing options. “Energizers, or fencers, are con stantly changing as Gallagher’s foot print grows globally,” she says. “We strive to make fencing easy yet safe for cattle and ranchers. An example would be the move into solar-powered energizers and the portability bene fits that brings.” Permanent fencing options change less frequently.

Gallagher’s Animal Management General Manager, Sharl Liebergreen, says producers should consider various fencing options to find the optimum solution for each production system. “There are many fencing options,” Liebergreen says. “Not just from Gallagher, but from numerous provid ers. Fencing selection depends on the species, area or distance being fenced, terrain, and availability of labor.” According to the University of Massachusetts Extension, “the most effective and lasting fences are planned with the correct layout and built with appropriate material and construc tion. The cost of a properly built fence often returns its value quickly.” The organization recommends reviewing fencing regulations and zoning ordi nances pertinent to a fencing project and being aware of exact boundary lines for adjoining property. MOVEABLE Electric fencing – a physiological barrier – trains animals to recognize boundaries in a confined area. Once an animal becomes “fence-wise,” they don’t require retraining. Generally, electric fencing is temporary, but it can also be permanent.

32 I SUMMER 2025 WORKING RANCH audited readers run 21 million head of beef cattle.