By Braden Anderson
•
21 Jul, 2024
The longstanding belief in barbed wire as the most economical fencing for livestock is being reevaluated due to technological advances over the last three decades. Electric fences now require only a third of the line posts that barbed wire does, significantly reducing costs to about $15 for wooden posts or $7 for steel T-posts. They also use fewer wire strands and are easier to install. The initial cost for an electric fence setup includes a high-quality energizer priced above $300 and top-brand insulators at 50 cents each, with proper grounding being essential. Barbed wire fencing still has its advantages, especially for expansive, low-maintenance installations in remote areas. However, electric fencing, with its strong electric pulse, requires consistent monitoring. Overgrowth and wildlife can damage insulators, compromising the fence's integrity. Regular inspections with a dependable fence tester are necessary to detect any problems. Some energizers even offer Wi-Fi connectivity, providing real-time updates to your phone about any disturbances or faults. Expect to invest between $5000-$6000 per quarter mile for a professional contractor to supply and install either type of fence.