Fences have been around as long as farming and ranching. Once mankind started raising livestock, we needed a place to keep and protect our animals. Farmers quickly learned that a barrier is necessary to protect their crops from animals and would-be thieves. At first, agricultural fencing was made of whatever materials were handy. This was usually wood or stone. Today, modern fences are mass produced for quality and uniformity. New fences are made from a wide variety of materials. While stone and wood are still in use, today you’re also likely to see plastic, wire and electrified fences on farms and homesteads.

Wire Fences and the Wild West

Eventually, metals were used for the construction of fences. As metalworking evolved, fences started being made of flat, thin metal wire. Wire fences can be made in a variety of ways for different agricultural needs. In modern times, we have everything from chain-link fences to chicken wire that’s used in coops and hutches. In 1867, the first United States patent for barbed wire was issued to an Ohio man named Lucien B. Smith. Barbed wire fences are generally made of steel wire and have sharp points at specific intervals. This makes them difficult for animals or people to get through or to climb over. As a result, barbed wire fences became popular among cattle ranchers in the American Wild West. This type of fence is still in use today, but mostly for law enforcement and military purposes.

Technological Advancements

One of the benefits of using metal for fences is that they can be electrified. A small amount of electricity can be used to dissuade livestock from touching the fence and trying to escape. Larger amounts of electricity can be used for a defensive barrier for prisons and military bases. This is just one of the many tech advancements that have been used for agricultural fences over the years. Today, we have automated fence systems for managing livestock and replaceable panels for easy installation and repair. Fence materials can now be made more durable and weather resistant than ever before. Heavy-gauge, metal-mesh fences are now made of galvanized steel and are commonly used to protect fields or keep animals safe and contained.

Agricultural Fence Services

Are your fences in need of repair or replacement? Do you have crops and need to keep the critters out of your fields? Perhaps you raise livestock and need to keep the critters on the inside. No matter which of these situations applies to you, you’re going to need professional fence services.

If you live in Kansas City, MO, or any of the surrounding areas, contact the pros at Reagan Fence for agricultural fence services.