Learn how to setup a paddocks to get the most from your livestock herd. When your high density/mob grazing the goal is to create a competitive eating environment, what one head my not eat another will.

In this video, I will explain how to determine the paddock size for your herd, regardless the number of head you have. I will also explain why mob grazing works so well if done correctly. The most common problem people make when they try high density grazing is making the paddocks too big. They second problem is they think if they experiment with making smaller paddocks the cattle will starve. You have to get pasted that fear and be willing to experiment and make modification as needed.

Thanks for watching!

Introduction

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Electric Fence Controller
• 10 to 14 Gauge Wire Insulated for 20,000 Volts
• Grounding System (copper or galvanized rods and brass clamps)
• Electric Fence Posts
• Insulation Wrap
• Post-Hole Digger
• Hammer
• Screwdrivers
• Wire-strippers
• Pliers

Steps

Tips & Warnings

• Place "Warning: Electric Fence" signs as often as you need, so from any vantage point one is easily seen
• Educate family and friends how to safely disconnect the electric fence in the case of an emergency
• Check your electric fence thoroughly every year for signs of damage, poor connections or poor insulation
• Avoid installing your electric fence grounding system within 50 feet of any utility grounds, underground telephone lines or water pipes.
• Do not use standard household electric wire. It is only rated for 600 Volts
• Avoid using barbed wire
• Do not add any other pieces of equipment to the circuit dedicated for the electric fence
• Do not "tie in" any equipment to the electric fence field controller
• Only fuses rated for 1 Amp/250 Volts should be used for the electric fence
• Avoid adding a second fence controller on the same fence at the same time
• Avoid standing near the electric fence during a lightning storm
• If you are using metal fence posts, ensure that the wire DOES NOT come in contact with the post

I'm using copper for grounding rods and now I've got a problem with oxidation. How do I solve it?
 
The oxidation is caused by mixing metals - copper with galvanized fencing in this case. When those two metals meet, oxidation will occur.  Replace your copper rods with galvanized metal rods.  You'll insure good conductivity and maximize the power delivered by your fence's energizer.

Each day while the cattle are out on pasture they are moved to a new paddock of grass. Polywire electric fence, a fence remote control, step-in posts, and handy reels make this job fairly simple!

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To understand grass fed beef a little more, in this video I discuss the basics to intensive grazing. I break down my daily routine with the herd moving them from paddocks to paddocks, keeping the herd in fresh grass. I explain all the benefits for the land and cattle.

The energizer is the heart of any electric-fence system, so select it carefully. A good unit will provide years of service if it is properly installed and maintained. Price should not be the determining factor. Many operators have started with farmstore specials that ended up crashing. The cost to purchase two or three cheap models is as much or more than the cost of purchasing a good one initially.

Purchase a low impedance Energizer with a minimum 5,000-volt output. It should produce 35-65 pulses per minute with each pulse lasting not more than 0.0003 seconds. Each pulse also should have an intensity of less than 300 m Amps.

Seek advice about energizers from experienced graziers, from sales people and from NRCS personnel. NRCS employees cannot recommend specific brands, but they can offer general advice. One of the best methods is to look at several operations similar to yours, and find out what those grazers are using and if they are happy with their units.

Consider the type of livestock to be controlled. For example, containing sheep, goats or horses may require special considerations for charger size and fence construction to ensure that the animals receive adequate shocks when they contact electric fences.

Purchase a larger unit (energizer) than you think you need because graziers usually expand their systems as they realize the benefits of modern electric fencing. Also increase the size of the energizer if you anticipate a high weed load near the fence. All energizers should come with manuals that explain installation and operation. Study the manual carefully.