Sheridan County’s beauty lies in its blend of wild and working lands. Elk, deer, pronghorn, and moose roam the same pastures as cattle and horses. But standard fences—like five-strand barbed wire and woven wire—don’t always work for livestock and wildlife. That’s why Sheridan Community Land Trust invites you to come see the difference at the new wildlife-friendly fence demonstration site at the Big Goose Natural Area.
This eye-opening display shows traditional fences side-by-side with proven wildlife-friendly designs. From lay-down and adjustable fences to styles with smooth, raised bottom and lowered top strands, visitors can see firsthand how a few thoughtful changes can keep livestock where they need to be—and let wildlife move freely and safely. These fences reduce entrapment, separation of young from mothers, lower the chance of injury or death to animals, and even cut down on maintenance costs for landowners.
The demonstration fence is part of SCLT’s collaborative effort to help landowners, ranchers, and wildlife coexist on shared lands. If you’re curious about how to make your fencing more wildlife-friendly without sacrificing function, now’s the time to take a stroll, get inspired, and start planning your own project.
SCLT would like to thank the hardworking volunteers who helped remove and replace old fencing at the Big Goose Natural Area, to Black Fern Fencing LLC for installation expertise, and to the Plank Stewardship Initiative and the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund for their generous support.
📞 Ready to build your own wildlife-friendly fence? Contact SCLT Conservation Director John Graves at via email or call the SCLT Office at 307-673-4702.
Let’s make fences that work with wildlife, not against them.
Learn more about wildlife-friendly fencing at https://SheridanCLT.org/Land/Friendly-Fencing/.
