Arid Southwest BMP 47

Fencing POLLUTANTS ADDRESSED: Nutrients and Organics, Sediments

DESCRIPTION: Stream protection with fencing involves the fencing of narrow strips of land along streams to exclude livestock, people, and wildlife. The fenced areas may be planted with trees or grass, but are typically not wide enough to act as streamside buffers. As a result of streamside fencing, remote watering and stream crossings must be provided. LOAD REDUCTION MECHANISM: Nutrients/Organics Management- Exclusion of livestock and wildlife from riparian areas will prevent their wastes from contaminating stream waters. Sediment Reduction – Fencing will also prevent livestock from trampling and destroying riparian vegetation which will reduce erosion and sediment production. LAND USE CLASSIFICATION:

Grazing lands ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: Native vegetation will be able to recover from grazing damage. POTENTIAL TREATMENT AREAS: Grazing lands Riparian areas ALTERNATIVE MANAGEMENT MEASURES: Grazing Management Watering Facility PERMITTING REQUIREMENTS: Generally none

Arid Southwest BMP 48

Fencing POLLUTANTS ADDRESSED: Nutrients and Organics, Sediments

Level 200: ACTIVE MANAGEMENT

LOAD REDUCTION POTENTIAL:

LOW MEDIUM HIGH ESTIMATED TIME FOR LOAD REDUCTION:

IMMEDIATE MONTHS- > 2 YEARS 2 YEARS EXPECTED MAINTENANCE:

LOW MEDIUM HIGH ESTIMATED COST:

LOW MEDIUM HIGH PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION: A wide variety of fencing is available. However, fencing material and construction quality should always designed and installed to assure the fence will meet the intended purpose and longevity requirements of the project. The standard fence is constructed of either barbed or smooth wire suspended by posts with support structures. Other types include woven wire for small animals, electric fence as a cost efficient alternative, and suspension fences which are designed with heavy but widely spaced posts and support structures.

Things to consider when planning a fence include the following: 1. For ease of maintenance purposes avoid as much irregular terrain as possible. 2. Wildlife movement needs should be considered. 3. State and local laws may apply to boundary fences. 4. Consider livestock handling, watering and feeding requirements when locating fences. 5. Consider soil erosion potential and feasibility of fence construction when planning fences on steep or irregular terrain.

Riparian Planting Zone: Upland Zone and Flood flow

Photo courtesy of NEMO