Livestock Fencing Workshop HeldOver 40 farmers and ranchers from Waller and several neighboring counties attended the Livestock Fencing Workshop hosted by the Cooperative Extension Program on Saturday, August 13 on the campus of Prairie View A&M University.

The workshop focused on modern fence construction for cattle and goat/sheep. The attendees included farmers and ranchers from various backgrounds and ages, some of whom are beginning farmers and ranchers. Participants learned how modern fence construction is more effective at keeping out large and small predators and durable enough to withstand the weight of cattle or the force of a random mishap with farm equipment. The material and techniques shared in the workshop result in cost-savings over time as livestock and produce are better protected from loss due to predators. Furthermore, the cost of repairing and re-constructing fences is minimized because of the durability and longevity of the fencing.

Judd Pearce, Territory Manager, Stay-Tuff Fencing, presented information on building braces, fence type, stretching, tying and splicing fence. Several of the attendees engaged in hands-on participation as they applied the fencing techniques learned to construct a demonstration fence as the closing activity of the workshop.

In addition to the fencing workshop, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) presented information on Cross-Fencing through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), which is a program that offers financial support to Livestock Producers in cross fencing their pastures.  The Farm Service Agency (FSA) presented information on the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program.  This low interest loan program finances building structures such as hay barns, equipment storage and grain facilities.

Of the 29 attendees responding to a workshop survey, 66% said they would probably or definitely adopt the use of a different fencing wire, 79% said they would use a different type of brace for fencing, and 79% said they would use cross-fencing as a practice on their farm. Further survey responses indicate that 86% intend to utilize USDA/NRCS programs to assist with cross-fencing, 66% will utilize USDA/FSA loan programs to build storage facilities, 86% will utilize USDA programs designed to assist small farmers, and 86% will participate in programs conducted by PVAMU to assist small farmers.

James Palmer

 

James Palmer, Ph.D.
Interim Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs
jmpalmer@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-2214