Gone are the days of horse-drawn plows, long ago replaced by machinery advancements and farming technology. Farm fencing, like all farm tools, evolved over the past century to provide superior protection for livestock and cropland.
Explore the history and innovative advancements in modern farm fencing technologies used across the Intermountain West.
History of Farm Fencing in the Intermountain West
A hundred years ago, farmers and ranchers relied on traditional fencing methods to protect their livestock and crops. Traditional farm fencing methods included primarily wooden split rail fences and early barbed wire fences. These methods helped producers maintain their homesteads and livestock, but each type had its advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional Farm Fencing Methods
Wooden Split-Rail Fences
Wooden split rail fences were a common solution throughout the region. These fences were relatively easy to construct and helped provide basic containment for livestock. However, the fences were not very durable and often required replacement after just a few years.
Barbed Wire Fences
Another early fencing option popular in the Intermountain West was barbed wire. It was a more cost-effective solution than wooden fences and offered better livestock containment. Barbed wire fences were made by stringing wires with sharp barbs along wooden or metal posts. While they were effective at keeping livestock in, they posed a danger to both animals and humans due to the sharp barbs.
Despite their limitations, these traditional farm fencing methods played a crucial role in securing farmland and protecting livestock in the Intermountain West for many years. However, new solutions emerged as fencing technologies evolved to provide better security and containment for farmers and livestock producers.
Introduction of New Technologies in Farm Fencing
With technology advancements, new farm fencing solutions emerged. These modern technologies revolutionized the way farmers and ranchers protect their land and livestock.
Electric Fencing
One notable innovation is the introduction of electric fencing. Electric fences use low-voltage electric shocks to deter animals from crossing the boundary. They are highly effective in containing livestock and can be easily customized to fit a farm's specific needs. Electric fences are also more durable and require less maintenance compared to traditional options.
Field Fencing
Field fencing, also known as farm fencing or agricultural fencing, is a type of wire mesh used to enclose and protect farmland, pastures, and livestock from predators and unwanted intrusions. Field fences are typically made of heavy-gauge galvanized steel. Field fences possess narrower openings at the bottom and wider openings at the top, which helps prevent animals from putting their feet through the fence. They can be electrified or fitted with barbed wire as needed.
Continuous Fencing
Continuous fencing contains panels that slip together to create a continuous line. These 14-gauge HD steel panels secure to metal or wood posts to construct a strong and attractive barrier. Continuous fencing is available in 20-foot sections and various horizontal rail options, ranging from four to six horizontal rails.
Welded Wire Panels
Welded wire panels are a type of livestock fence made from galvanized steel wire welded at each intersection. The wire is hot-dipped galvanized to improve its resistance to corrosion and rust. Welded wire panels are often used in loading areas, feedlots, corrals, arenas, and working pens.
Livestock Panels and Gates
Livestock panels and gates create pens and enclosures for animals like sheep, horses, and cattle. They are often made of powder-coated steel for temporary or permanent enclosures. Livestock panels and gates come in a variety of sizes and designs to accommodate different types of animals and settings. Gated panels enable customization in areas with heavy livestock pressure, such as working corrals and cattle handling areas.
High-Tensile Wire Fencing
High-tensile wire added another breakthrough in farm fencing technology. This fencing consists of steel wires tightly stretched between posts. This wire offers superior strength and durability, making it ideal for withstanding the Intermountain West’s harsh weather conditions. These fences require fewer posts and provide better containment for livestock.
Fencing Improvements: Barbed Wire & Treated Wood
Farmers and ranchers continue to rely on some traditional fencing methods are still trusted options on farms and ranches in the Intermountain West, but these fencing solutions have also undergone some improvements.
Galvanized Barbed Wire
Barbed wire fences, while an early fencing option, underwent significant improvements in durability and safety. The barbs are now designed to be more animal-friendly, reducing the risk of injury to livestock. Traditional barbed wire was prone to rusting and corrosion, but modern barbed wire options made with galvanized steel help extend the fence’s life.
Treated Wood Posts and Rails
Weather, decay and pests including termites tend to harm traditional wooden fence posts.Thanks to modern technology, chemically-treated wood expands its lifespan and protects against damage to extend wood’s longevity and durability.
Challenges and Solutions in Fencing Maintenance
The Intermountain West’s variable climate and terrain make fence maintenance a challenge. Luckily, new fencing technologies offer solutions to help reduce maintenance which saves time, money, and improves fence longevity
Weather-Resistant Fencing Solutions
Modern fencing solutions often feature materials and coatings to withstand harsh weather conditions With technology advancements, fences benefit from stronger materials to withstand the elements, requiring less maintenance in the long run. This not only saves time and money for farmers but also ensures better protection for their livestock and crops.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Farmers and ranchers can prolong the life of their fences by taking a few proactive measures, which will help them save time and money in the long run.
Regular maintenance, such as inspecting for damages, repairing any weak spots, and treating wood fences with protective coatings, prevents deterioration caused by the region's unique climate and terrain. Additionally, implementing weather-resistant and durable modern fencing materials offers better protection against harsh weather conditions.
Benefits of Modern Farm Fencing Solutions
As technologies \evolve, modern fencing solutions provide durability and adaptability for different jobs. Modern farm fencing offers a range of benefits for farmers and ranchers in the Intermountain West including:
Security
New fencing technologies enhance livestock security and containment. Modern fencing solutions prevent animals from escaping and are built from stronger materials that provide security for longer periods.
Weather Resistance & Durability
Modern farm fences also require less maintenance than their traditional counterparts. They are designed to withstand the elements and are more resistant to wear and tear, which saves farmers and ranchers time and money in the long run.
Versatility
Modern farm fencing solutions provide versatility for farmers needing to customize options for their livestock. Whether it's a large ranch or a small farm, there is a modern fencing solution available to complete the task.
IFA Farm Fencing Solutions
As technology advances, the future of farm fencing in the Intermountain West looks promising.
IFA is committed to remaining your preeminent source for fencing solutions. As a farmer-owned cooperative, IFA understands the importance of functional and durable fencing solutions and is a leader in the Intermountain West for fencing supplies.
Stop by your local IFA to consult with an IFA expert about fencing equipment and options for your operation. Our IFA teams have the solutions, supplies, and tools to keep your land and livestock secured.
Information for this article was provided by Kash VanTassell, IFA Fencing & Livestock Equipment Category Manager; and Tyler Stinson, IFA Associate V.P., Farm Supply Marketing.