Fences In The True West

What fences mean for the rural western landscape.

1 minute read

February 5, 2003, 5:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Barbed wire fencing dominates the rural West, because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to construct. Given the large extent of many Western ranches, it is the most sensible and economical means of fencing in livestock. An unintended consequence is that wildlife has difficulty crossing the fence without being injured... Aesthetics are another major concern as towns sprawl into the countryside. More and more exotic fencing is being introduced that has no historical precedent in most areas of the West. (White three-rail, chain link, and solid stockade fencing are all common in the East and in larger cities, but stick out like sore thumbs in the Western landscape.)"

Thanks to American Planning Association

Wednesday, February 5, 2003 in Planning Magazine

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