At Stella Manor, our 55-acre organic farm in Bell Township, Westmoreland County, PA, we are deeply committed to sustainable and regenerative farming practices. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the farm’s infrastructure, we recently undertook the construction of a new fence for our cattle. In keeping with our organic principles, we chose to avoid using treated wood, opting instead for durable and environmentally-friendly materials such as recycled steel pipe for corners and galvanized steel T-posts (made from recycled rails). I wanted to document this as in my searches before building I wasn’t able to find many resources on building a fence that does not contain wood.
Materials and Construction
Steel Corners and Bracing:
The corners of our fence are built with welded steel for strength and longevity. We started by pounding 5.5-inch steel pipes 4 to 6 feet into the ground to serve as the primary support. To form a typical corner brace, 3-inch pipes were welded horizontally, providing the necessary reinforcement to withstand the tension from the high-tensile wire. The 5.5 inch pipe was filled with concrete once the corner brackets were filled in. Later on I may weld on caps but the concrete should prevent water from freezing and cracking the pipe.
Handling Turns:
For small turns in the fence line, a single 5.5-inch pipe driven 5 feet into the ground was used. This method provided the necessary stability for the high-tensile wire to be attached securely, ensuring the fence remains taut and functional. We are located in the Appalachian mountains in large dips we would also use the single 5.5 inch pipe driven into the ground.
Line Posts:
The line posts consist of 7-foot galvanized T-posts sourced from Franklin Industries in Franklin, PA. Each T-post was driven 3 feet into the ground, offering a reliable and sturdy foundation for the high-tensile wire. These galvanized posts are not only durable but also resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for long-term use on our farm.
Community and Resources
Throughout this project, we received invaluable support and resources from Kencove Supply in Blairsville, PA. From hardware and wire to gates and expert advice, Kencove was an essential partner in helping us achieve our goals. Their knowledge and commitment to quality products ensured that our fence was built to the highest standards.
Commitment to Sustainability
By choosing materials like welded steel and galvanized steel T-posts, we ensured that our fencing solution was both robust and environmentally sustainable. Avoiding treated wood aligns with our organic farming practices, minimizing chemical exposure to our land and livestock. I’m not sure how long it will last but I’m thinking it will outlive me.
This project marks another step forward in our journey toward sustainable and regenerative farming at Stella Manor. The new fence not only enhances the safety and management of our cattle but also stands as a testament to our dedication to organic and eco-friendly farming methods.
Stay tuned for more updates on our farm’s developments and our continuous efforts to promote sustainability in agriculture.
Cody Deluisio
Stella Manor
Bell Township, Westmoreland County, PA