There are a large number of temporary or portable fencing systems available. These include single wires, multiple wires, netting, electrified tape and electrified rope. Tape and rope are easily visible, and are recommended for horses, cattle and young stock.
Line wire systems
Most line systems incorporate reels onto which the wire, polywire or tape is wound to adjust the length of the fence, and for storage.
Posts are made of a tough polymer which are resistant to UV light and extremes of temperature, and are designed with multiple fastening positions to give a choice of wire combinations. Metal posts with adjustable insulators are also available.
Systems developed by Rappa are designed for the quick and easy erection, dismantling and storage of temporary line fences, using stranded steel wire or polywire. The line wires are mounted on reels with adjustable slip clutches, which maintain tension on the wires, and allow them to be paid out or reeled in without tangling. The reels are mounted on a ‘wheelbarrow’, or on an attachment for an all-terrain vehicle, or on a special trailer, all of which are available from Rappa.
Netting systems
Temporary electric netting is available from several suppliers for the control of horses, sheep, goats, foxes, poultry and rabbits. Most netting is supplied in 25m or 50m lengths. Netting is useful for rotational grazing or for creating temporary paddocks, but has some disadvantages.
- The vegetation needs to be very short along the fence line, or the net distorts. It may be necessary to cut or spray the vegetation along the fence line before erecting the fence.
- The netting is not very strong, and can be damaged by careless handling or storage. It should never be used without power, as stock, especially those with horns, can get badly entangled and damage both themselves and the fence.
- The portability of the fence can attract thieves.
When not in use, roll the netting carefully as shown. Do not roll straight from one end to the other, or the netting will become entangled.
