Livestock Fencing — FarmPal
Plan, install, and maintain fencing systems appropriate for your animals and property.
Time Required
Varies greatly by project. Allow 1-2 posts per hour by hand.
Season
See notes
Benefits
- •Keeps animals safely contained
- •Protects livestock from predators
- •Enables rotational grazing
- •Defines property boundaries
- •Essential infrastructure for animal keeping
Steps
1
Plan Your Fence System
Design based on animals kept, terrain, and management goals (permanent perimeter vs. rotational paddocks).
- 💡 Walk fence lines before planning
- 💡 Consider future needs and expansion
- 💡 Gates should be placed for convenient movement
2
Choose Appropriate Fencing Type
Different animals require different fencing. Some escape over, some through, some under.
- 💡 Goats: need very secure fencing they test everything
- 💡 Cattle: respect electric, need strong physical barriers
- 💡 Poultry: need overhead protection too (hardware cloth)
3
Set Corner and Brace Posts
Strong corner assemblies are the foundation. Brace posts transfer tension.
- 💡 Use treated or rot-resistant wood
- 💡 Bury posts 1/3 of total length
- 💡 Double H-brace for long runs or heavy tension
4
Install Line Posts and Fencing
Line posts support fencing between corners. Spacing depends on terrain and fence type.
- 💡 8-12 feet spacing for most wire fencing
- 💡 Closer spacing on hilly terrain
- 💡 T-posts are economical for wire fencing
5
Install Gates and Finish
Gates are high-use points requiring sturdy construction and hardware.
- 💡 Gates should be wider than you think you need
- 💡 Use quality hinges and latches
- 💡 Brace gate posts extra well
Tools Needed
Post hole digger or auger
Fence stretcher/come-along
Wire cutters and pliers
Level and measuring tape
Hammer and staples
Safety glasses and gloves
⚠️ Safety
- •Call before you dig (utility lines)
- •Tensioned wire is under tremendous force can recoil dangerously
- •Wear safety glasses when cutting wire
- •Electric fencing can shock disconnect before working
Seasonal Notes
Install in dry weather when possible. Ground freezes in winter (difficult digging). Spring is traditional fence repair season.