The Importance of Electric Fencing in Farming Cannot be Over-stated
Electric fencing has proven its efficacy as a formidable barrier of protection, keeping assets and loved ones safe. But how does this type of fencing assist farmers? Whether you own a large-scale agricultural operation or a small holding, the need for proper farm fencing solutions cannot be overstated. As a cornerstone of farm infrastructure, your choice of fence safeguards livestock from predators, prevents wandering, and separates essential areas for grazing, feeding, and handling.
As the leading manufacturer and supplier of superior-quality fencing, Chemvet Steel & Fencing understands the critical nature of choosing the right products for your farming requirements. In this article, we will illustrate why it is the most versatile and effective choice for farmers.
Strip Grazing with Electric Fencing
Several methods exist for implementing strip or rotational grazing systems, yet electric fencing seems to be the most efficient approach. Whether you opt for a temporary or permanent setup, this farm fencing solution offers cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and ease of installation. By fencing off a separate area in your field and moving it regularly to allow livestock access to fresh grass you are effectively maintaining the vegetational growth in your fields. Overgrazing of fields can lead to the deterioration of plant species as root systems are not given a chance to develop leading to the loss of energy stores for livestock.
Both sides of the grazing area should be fenced simultaneously effectively creating a moving grazing strip across the field. This division results in two distinct zones; the grazing area enclosed by the fences and the resting area, recently grazed and now recovering, ensuring that the pasture remains undisturbed. The frequency at which the fencing is moved must be based on your farm’s operational structure, which is why electric fencing is the better option as it is lightweight and easy to move in comparison to other types of fencing.
Livestock Containment
Contrary to popular belief, electric fencing installed to contain livestock does not produce a harmful shock, it merely serves as a rapid and effective deterrent, conditioning livestock to avoid the fence line without causing harm. The benefit of this is two-fold as the fence also keeps predators away from your livestock. Electric fencing systems comprise three elements namely the energiser, the earthing system, and the fence line. Make sure that the horizontal distance between the wires on the fence line is suitable for the type of livestock being contained. For example, dairy cows require one to two wires whereas sheep will need two to four.
How to Choose the Correct Energiser
It is important to remember that the size of the energiser plays a vital role in the efficacy of the fence line. Dairy cows typically need a smaller energiser whereas sheep containment requires a stronger one due to their woolly pelts. Horses, on the other hand, generally require low-powered energisers due to their susceptibility to electric shocks caused by the sweat and salt on their coats. What you cannot do is use the same energiser for livestock that you would for perimeter protection.
High-Quality Electric Fencing Solutions
As the leading manufacturer of quality fencing and steel products for over 40 years, we at Chemvet Steel & Fencing will provide you with the electric fencing needed for your specific farming requirements. Our partnership with Ndlovu Fencing allows us to provide you with trusted Stafix and JVA products, complemented by a wide array of accessories and services. Whether you require razor mesh fencing or prefer the added protection of palisade fencing, we are your go-to specialists, all you have to do is contact us.
