Semi-permanent and Temporary Energized Fence Systems for Small Ruminants

Brenda and Jeff Berkebile have a flock of about 40 Katahdin, Dorper, and cross-bred hair sheep on their farm in Foley. Come see different management types including grazing sheep in oak savanna silvo-pasture and perennial pasture settings. They have been restoring conventional corn/bean crop acres to perennial hay and pasture.

We will cover the fundamentals of electric fencing, geared towards folks just starting out with livestock, beginning farmers, or those who need a refresher. We will also cover energizers and grounding, semi-permanent systems, and temporary systems for sheep and goat producers. We will discuss how to use electrified netting, multiple strand fencing, training livestock to electric fencing, and common issues that are experienced with electric fencing.

This event will be held outdoors. Please dress according to the weather. You may bring a pair of well-fitting work gloves if you wish.

Registration is required for this free event. No walkups, please.

Presenters:

Kent Solberg, Senior Technical Advisor
For many years, Kent owned and operated his own fence contracting business. He planned, installed, and worked with farmers and landowners to fit the best fencing systems and materials to their needs. He brings a wealth of experience in livestock production and fencing to this workshop.

Jonathan Kilpatrick, Soil Health Specialist
Starting with raising dairy goats and sheep in his teenage years, Jonathan has managed small ruminants in both backyard, hobby-sized operations up to large, commercial flocks. He has been utilizing electric fencing since the beginning and has designed, installed, and successfully used many different types throughout the years.

Address: 9000 95th Ave NE Foley, MN 56329

SFA staff and volunteers occasionally take photos during our workshops, cafe chats and field days for promotional purposes and to use as documentation of events to share with our funders.  If you do not wish to be photographed, please let our event host know — we’ll make every effort to make sure you are not photographed.