Nuisance Control

Deer & Elk

Properly designed and maintained energized fences are effective at reducing deer and elk damage to crops, haystacks, alfalfa fields, and gardens. Energized fences are inexpensive to maintain and can last for many years. However, an energized fence is not a physical barrier against deer and elk entry. An energized fence acts as a psychological barrier which some animals will continually test for an entry location. It is important that an energized fence be properly installed, maintained, and powered at all times. It is also important for deer and elk to see the energized fence.  For best results, install and energize your fence prior to spring planting.

Bear

Bears cause most damage in spring after emerging from hibernation and again in early fall.  A highly visible and properly energized fence has been proven to effectively protect against bear damage.

Coyote,Wolf, and Raccoon

In most terrain a good five-foot fence with several strands of barbed wire, or high tencile wire has been known to be effective.  Another alternative is to incorporate an energized perimeter wire outside of existing fences.  Coyote, Wolf, and Raccoon will explore with their noses close to the ground, and will approach a fence at ground height.  Installing an energized perimeter wire eight inches above the ground, and another at the top of the fence has been known to protect livestock from most predators.

(For more information about nuisance control, contact your local Department of Natural Resources)