An Introduction and the advantages of Electric Fencing

An electric fence is a psychological and physical barrier that keeps wildlife or farm animals in and unwanted animals and vermin out - even over long distances. There is nothing new about using electricity to control animals. For over seventy years farmers have been using electric fences to control their livestock and as long ago as 1952 records show that Uganda State Forestry department used electric fences to protect young seedlings from being damaged by African wildlife. The mechanical "tick tock” high internal impedance type energisers used back then were however unable to overcome much competition from vegetation and thus could only power relatively short lengths of fence line. The technological advancements in solid state electronics during the 1970's resulted in the development of the modern low internal impedance high powered energisers in use today. These modern energisers are capable of powering many kilometres of multi strand electric fencing and the electric fence has now become a truly effective management tool that is being used successfully around the world to control all species of wildlife. Today very few conservation organisations do not incorporate electric fencing in their wildlife management programs. However, despite the successes achieved in Africa and elsewhere around the world, electric fencing still has its detractors. While most people swear by it there are still a few who do not believe it works effectively. The reason for this is simple. Those who understand and apply the basic principles of electric fencing when constructing their electric fences will reap the benefits of electric fencing, while those who do not apply these principles will never get their fence to work effectively. Finally. while economics will obviously be an important consideration when planning any electric fencing project, guard against being too thrifty and of basing major decisions on price considerations alone.

ADVANTAGES OF ELECTRIC FENCING

Electric fencing offers the following benefits:

1. Low cost

An electric fence can perform the same task as a conventional fence using much less material.

2. Easy to build

Lower wire strains and generally lighter construction make much quicker and easier construction, especially in difficult terrain.

3. Durability

Electric fences are not subjected to the same physical pressure from animals, and can therefore be expected to have a greatly extended service life. The life of old fences can be considerably extended using electric fencing.

4. Universal application

Electric fencing will contain all types of animals. Educated stock develop greater respect for electric fencing than for any other type of fence.

5. Flexibility

There is no quicker or easier way to effectively subdivide a paddock for controlled grazing than with an electric fence.

6. Low maintenance

Once your fence is properly installed and your stock are trained, the maintenance requirements of electric fencing are little different from conventional fences.

7. Less stock damage

The shock from your electric fence causes no physical damage to hides and pelts. If your stock is forced through the fence by bushfires or dogs, they are at less risk than with a conventional fence.