Imagine waking up to find your prized vegetable garden ravaged, your orchard decimated, and your livestock spooked by the presence of unwelcome guests. If you’re a landowner, this scenario might not be too far from reality, especially if you live in an area frequented by deer. In this guide, we explore the dangers deer pose to your land and livelihood and the key to ‘keep deer out’ for protection.
Deer are enchanting creatures, often admired for their graceful presence and serene demeanor. However, when these gentle creatures decide to make a meal out of your precious crops or disturb the tranquility of your livestock, that admiration can quickly turn to frustration and financial loss.
The Danger of Deer on Your Land
Deer may seem harmless, but they can wreak havoc on your property in more ways than one.
The Impact on Crops:
Picture this: after months of hard work, you wake up one morning to find your lush garden turned into a battleground. Deer have a penchant for munching on a variety of plants, from vegetables to fruits and ornamental flowers, making it essential to find effective ways to keep deer out. The damage they leave behind isn’t just aesthetic; it can translate into significant financial losses.
Let’s do the math: a family of deer can consume hundreds of pounds of crops in a single week. That’s not just your money down the drain; it’s the hard work and dedication you’ve invested in your land.
Threats to Livestock:
It’s not just your vegetation that’s at risk. Livestock can also fall victim to deer-induced stress and injury. The presence of deer can spook your animals, leading to injuries or even the loss of valuable livestock.
In some cases, deer may carry diseases that can be transmitted to your livestock, posing a health risk that’s simply not worth taking.
The Deer Fence: A Shield for Your Property
Now that we’ve discussed the dangers, it’s time to introduce our knight in shining armor – the deer fence.
What is a Deer Fence:
A deer fence is a physical barrier designed to keep deer out of your property. It’s your first line of defense against these garden invaders. These fences are typically made of materials like woven wire or polypropylene mesh and stand tall enough to deter deer from attempting to jump over them.
Materials and Sizing:
Choosing the Right Posts:
One of the critical elements of a sturdy deer fence is the choice of posts. For woven wire fencing, it’s optimal to use six to seven-inch round treated posts, similar to those used with high tensile fences. The primary difference lies in the spacing of these posts, which are typically much closer together for maximum fence security.
Post Spacing Considerations:
The spacing of your fence posts depends on the size of the wire’s grid and the specific requirements of your property. For instance, when installing a horse fence, which requires extra stability, you might opt for a 13-48-3 wire configuration. This means that the wire has 13 strands running horizontally, the fence stands at 48 inches in height, and the upright wire or stays are spaced every three inches.
Bracing the Fence:
Woven wire fencing places significant strain on the fence posts due to its design. To maintain the integrity of your deer fence to keep deer out, it’s crucial to brace it properly. Here’s how it’s done:
1. Post Spacing: Posts should be spaced approximately eight feet apart. This closer spacing provides the necessary support to withstand the pressure exerted by the woven wire.
2. Depth: When installing the posts, ensure they are buried four feet into the ground. This depth enhances stability and prevents deer from pushing the fence over.
3. Horizontal Pole: Run a horizontal pole between the bracing posts. This pole acts as a reinforcement for the fence, distributing the tension evenly.
4. Diagonal Wire: Strengthen the brace system by adding a diagonal wire that connects the top of one post to the bottom of the next. This diagonal wire helps to hold the brace system together, providing additional support and security.
By following these guidelines for materials and sizing, you’ll ensure that your deer fence is robust and capable of withstanding the challenges posed by deer and other wildlife, ultimately helping you to keep deer out. Selecting the right posts and configuring the grid pattern and bracing system are crucial for long-term deer fence effectiveness.
With these considerations in mind, you can create a deer fence that not only keeps deer out but also provides lasting protection for your property, crops, and livestock.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, we’ve explored the myriad challenges that deer can bring to your land, from devastating your crops to unsettling your livestock. However, the solution to these problems, and the key to ‘keep deer out,’ is within your reach, and it’s called the deer fence.
By understanding the dangers that deer pose to your property, recognizing the significance of a well-structured deer fence, and mastering the installation process, you can ensure a secure and tranquil environment on your land.
Invest in Protection – Install Your Deer Fence Today!
With the right materials, sizing, and bracing, your deer fence will stand as an impenetrable barrier, keeping deer out and preserving your investments. Don’t wait until your crops are decimated or your livestock is stressed. Take proactive steps to safeguard your land, your livelihood, and your peace of mind.
Now that you have the knowledge and the means, seize the opportunity to create a deer-resistant oasis on your property. Install your deer fence today and bid farewell to the days of deer-related worries. Protect your land like a pro and enjoy the serenity it deserves.
