Priority should be placed on repairing perimeter fences and fences along roads. The decision then becomes the most efficient way to proceed. It may be best in certain situations to build a temporary electric fence inside the fallen tree line. Electric fence is the fastest and most economical way to contain cattle and is a good option for many producers. Advantages of electric fencing include cost-effectiveness compared to other fencing options, ease of installation and repair versus barbed wire fencing, and the ability to have longer wire runs between posts requiring fewer posts. Electric fence can be installed using poly wire, poly tape, or high-tensile wire. A minimum of three strands of electric wire should be used on perimeter fences, and two strands can be used on cross fences. Solid corner posts and gate posts are very important. High tensile fencing tends to place more pressure on the posts. Be sure that H braces are built sturdily.
Choosing an adequate energizer for electric fencing is very important. If electricity is not available, battery or solar energizers can be used. Weeds and poor insulators can bleed off electricity from an electric fence. The longer the fence, the more powerful the energizer must be to send an effective charge throughout the length of the fence. Proper grounding of an electric fencing system is a must. A minimum of three six-foot grounds rods should be driven into the ground at ten-foot intervals. Alternating hot and ground wires on the fence structure can be effective in cattle restraint. Start with the top wire electrified.
A lot can be achieved with new fencing technologies available. Electric fencing makes subdivision relatively fast and inexpensive. However, the effectiveness of these fences relies of proper construction and the ability to carry the charge.
The success of electric fencing can also be dependant on the cattle. Well behaved cattle that are regularly handled and know what an electric fence is will treat a single “hot” wire with as much if not more respect than any barbed wire fence. Cattle, especially calves, can be quickly and easily trained to electric fences by putting a temporary wire up in the pasture with them. Once the cattle have experienced a couple of good shocks, they will not forget.
Source: Mississippi State Ag Extension