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News Release from: Forestry Commission | Subject: New guide to forest fencing
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 01 August 2006
New guide to forest fencing
The Forestry Commission publish a new guide that updates its existing advice on forest fencing.
Forest managers have traditionally used fences as one option to protect young trees from damage by herbivorous wild animals such as deer and rabbits However, it is an expensive control measure, particularly in remote areas or where access is difficult
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 23 Jun 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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It can also be contentious, drawing opposition from groups such as environmental organisations, ramblers, hill walkers and local communities.
It is therefore vital that the appropriate type of fence is designed, located and erected to high specifications, and then maintained properly to ensure that it fulfils its role cost-effectively and with minimal environmental and landscape impact until it has finished its job and can be removed.
The Forestry Commission has therefore published a new guide that updates its existing advice on forest fencing.
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It takes into account recent developments such as new fencing materials on the market, temporary and electric fencing, marking fences to reduce deaths of woodland birds from collisions, and the use of machinery Entitled Technical Guide: Forest Fencing, it was written by Roger Trout of Forest Research, and Harry Pepper, and replaces Forestry Commission Bulletin 102: Forest Fencing , first published in 1992.
It recommends best-practice principles for managers as a guide to planning, assessment and mitigation of adverse factors, and choosing the fence design appropriate for the target species.
It also indicates the key practical steps in construction.
It helps in identifying the normal specifications of components required to accommodate typical situations and when taking account of special local circumstances.
It presumes that those involved are already reasonably familiar with the techniques of installing agricultural stock fences, but outlines the factors involved in working with spring-steel line wires, hexagonal mesh and high-tensile netting products, which together create the recommended generic fencing options against rabbits and deer.
Sections on choosing the correct specification for the species concerned, and adjustments to specifications in special situations, are provided, together with information on tools, safety aspects and maintenance, including the need to remove fencing when it is no longer required.
The guide is an A4-sized, 50-page booklet with full colour illustrations.
Technical Guide: Forest Fencing is priced £7.50 and can be ordered from Forestry Commission Publications.
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