Ask SAM: Select appropriate materials for horse fences

This column is provided by Larimer County Extension's Small Acreage Management (SAM) Program to assist rural residents.

Dear SAM,

What type of fence is best for managing my horses?

Derek

Dear Derek,

Choose your fencing materials based on the function, cost, maintenance and appearance of the fence.

The perimeter fence keeps your horse at home. This fence needs to be strong and durable, with a minimum height of 5 feet.

Rail fences, with planks or boards nailed to posts, are effective perimeter fences. They are strong, durable and highly visible. Visibility prevents horses from accidentally running into the fence and injuring themselves. Rail fences are often painted white to increase durability and visibility.

High-tensile, smooth wire fences are a cheaper alternative for perimeter fences. Barbed wire is not recommended. Wires must be tightened periodically to maintain proper tension. Use at least five strands of 12 1/2-gauge or larger wire. At least one strand should be vinyl coated or otherwise made more visible for both horse and human safety. Electrifying some of the strands increases the effectiveness of the fence.

Corner braces on high-tensile fences need to be exceptionally strong to support the tension of the wires. If you choose a wire fence to save money, do not skimp on corner brace construction along the way. A strong brace will pay for itself in saved maintenance.

Leave an 8- to 12-inch space between the bottom wire or rail and the ground. This is high enough to prevent a hoof from becoming trapped and low enough to keep the horse from reaching under the fence for grass.

Invest in sturdy gates for your fences. Horses often congregate near gates, increasing the chances a gate could be challenged and broken.

Fencing is also used to manage animals within the property. Fences to divide pastures can be less substantial than perimeter fences. Step-in fiberglass or plastic posts are cheap, easy to install and effective if your animals are trained on electric wire. Woven electric tape is preferred over plain electric wire. The woven tape is easy to handle and greatly increases visibility.

Step-in posts are easy to move if you decide to reconfigure your rotational pasture system. While this fencing material is not strong, the horses won't be able to travel far if they break through because your strong perimeter fence will keep them at home.

For more information, see Fences for Horses at http://pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/b1192.htm.

SAM

Have a question about rural living? Write to Ask SAM, Larimer County Cooperative Extension, P.O. Box 543, Fort Collins, CO 80522.