In the process of planning my horse barn, I have spent many hours considering the different possibilities of pasture fencing, weighing out cost, durability, visibility, upkeep and above all safety.

And after months of consideration, I finally stumbled upon an unbeatable deal on just the right amount of my dream fence - Centaur HTP® Horse Fencing (high tensile polymer). With 3 strands of 12.5 gauge high tensile wire per rail, coated in a rot, peel, crack and chip free polymer material, HTP fencing provides all of the features I need in a fence. 

Here is a great article on different types of horse fencing to help you find which one is best for you.

Other things to consider when planning your pasture are:

How much pasture will I need?

• A common answer to this question is at least two acres per horse if you plan to provide a substantial part of it's daily forage from grazing alone. Unfortunately, two acres of grazing per horse isn't always available, so it is important to establish a supplemental feeding plan and rotate your pastures to prevent overgrazing.

How tall does my pasture fence need to be?

• Generally, pasture fencing should be at least 5' tall, but depending on the size and temperament of your horses, you may need a taller fence (see my earlier post on how my 12.2 hand pony jumped a 4' high gate). I like to have a line of hot wire across the top to discourage jumping, leaning and cribbing the fence.

Cowboy Logic of the Day

"Most folks are like a bob-wire fence. They have their good points."