
← Growing Farms Podcast2. Aug. 2025 · 1 Std. 04 Min.
Fencing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Livestock Fencing
If you're starting a livestock operation, your fencing system can make or break your farm. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Cadman of Shady Grove Ranch—an experienced farmer and engineer—to talk through the essentials of livestock fence systems for beginning farmers.
We cover:
How to choose the right fence for your animals
Pros and cons of electric fencing, woven wire, and temporary setups
Mistakes new farmers make (and how to avoid them)
How to design a livestock fence that fits your land and budget
Building for durability, flexibility, and multi-species grazing
Whether you're raising chickens, pigs, sheep, or cattle, good fencing is critical to your success. This episode will help you save money, reduce stress, and build a better system from day one.
Resources & Links: More episodes and farming guides: https://farmmarketingsolutions.com Learn more about Matt's farm: https://shadygroveranch.net Support for pastured poultry farmers: https://apppa.org