Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
chutes. Lighter gates should be fine if used in areas that use lightweight electric fen-
cing.
It is also important to note that under the National Organic Program, treated wood is not al-
lowed for fence posts or for any structures that come in contact with animals or crops. Altern-
atives for fence posts include naturally sturdy wood such as black locust that resists rot, or
you can use alternative finishing products to treat your wood. Your organic certifier will be
able to tell you what you can and cannot use. ATTRA, the common name for the National
Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, provides information about sustainable agricul-
ture.
Tools you may need to install a fence
The following represents some of the tools you need to build your own fence. Note that your
needs may change depending on the type of fence you plan on building.
• Posts can be put in the ground manually with a
post-hole digger,
which is a clamshell-
shaped tool used to dig, or with an
auger
, which is a drill-type tool that you attach to a
tractor or a small farming vehicle called a skid steer.
• Stapler and staples that are 1 to 1 ½ inches long to attach fencing to wooden posts
• Wire stretcher or fence puller to tighten fences
• Hammer to tap smaller posts or rods into the ground
• Spinner or reel that allows you to roll or unroll wire easily
• Round crimper, which is a tool for making good electrical wire connections
• Digital voltmeter that tests grounding systems and helps you ensure that each section of
line has sufficient charge throughout the system
Installing your fence
You can design the layout of your permanent fencing system by using an aerial map of your
farm as a guide. These aerial photographic maps are available free at the local office of the
Farm Service Agency, a division of the USDA that helps administer farm programs. This aeri-
al photomap allows you mark your property lines and plan around existing buildings, water
sources, and shaded areas.
