Recently while doing some sheep fencing, TAMS Grant, for a farmer/customer, in Cullahill, Co. Laois, I was asked to look at a fence in a paddock beside his house. The paddock is of great importance to this farmer, especially in the spring as he will lamb all his ewes here for great convenience of being able to have a watchful eye over them. 

On my first sight of the fence in question, all I could say is, "I'm sorry but a repair job is out of the question!"  When I put my hand to the post and rail fence it nearly fell over in front of me. From a Labour point of view it would just take to long to do anything with the post and rail fence that was there. The farmer agreed it was probably time to replace the fence as he reckoned it was probably about 30 years old. 

So, we studied it a little further as to what type of fence would work best and be cost effective. He didn't want to spend big money on a new post and rail fence, but at the same time he didn't just want a sheepwire fence as it is beside the house and in full view beside the road. 

So the challenge ahead was;

Not plain, but stock/sheep proofNot expensive, but looks eloquent Just keeping it simple

After much consideration we came to a very good solution. And the end result was a very happy customer. 

I am delighted to have had the opportunity to create such a fabulous project. A good job is always a happy customer. 

I hope everyone who sees this post will agree that it is the best solution for the situation that I

was faced with. 

Derrymore Agri Services Limited

The Hedge Cutting Season is from September 1 until February 28 (except in certain, legally defined circumstances). Any works involving the disturbance of hedgerows outside this period may only be carried out for reasons of public health and safety. The "closed season" on hedge cutting is required under Section 46 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000. Hedges should be cut while they are dormant. Landowners should plan for the management of hedges on their properties since hedges are important heritage features. In addition to helping form the local and regional character of landscapes, hedges and other wild vegetation provide food and shelter for insects, birds and other animals. Almost two-thirds of Ireland's bird species nest in hedges. Hedges also provide natural corridors that permit wildlife to move between habitats.

The "closed season" on cutting hedges is not a new idea. Irish governments have always recognised the conservation importance of hedgerows and other vegetation for breeding birds and other animals and plants. In adopting the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, the Irish government recognised the need for a longer undisturbed period for hedges. Long-term studies show that bird breeding, the first appearance of leaves and the flowering of plants began earlier than first anticipated. The 2000 Act brought the last day for hedge cutting forward to the last day of February in the interests of wildlife and habitat protection. It is important to recognise the importance of maintaining hedgerows as part of wise conservation of our natural heritage, good farming practice and protecting the natural and picturesque beauty.

Here at Derrymore Agri Services Limited we wish to bring the dates for the hedge-cutting season to the attention of the public and hope that this advice will help people to stay on the right side of our wildlife protection laws. More information on Irish Laws in relation to Wildlife can be consulted at: www.irishstatutebook.ie or view the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 here

Extract from Section 46, Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000: "(1) (a) It shall be an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy, during the period beginning on the 1st day of March and ending on the 31st day of August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated. (b) It shall be an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch during the period mentioned in paragraph (a) of this subsection."

Our Hedge-Cutting Service is carried out with a McConnell PA93E Hedge-cutter.

Derrymore Agri Services Limited

Fences can range from the most basic barbed wire, to highly structured steel security features.Fences keep pets in and help protect your property from pests.Whether you have a small area or many acres, you might find it necessary to fence your property.

Step 1 - Check with local authorities

Check with local authorities to determine whether any building codes, permits or height regulations apply in your local area.

Step 2 - Measure the area

Measure the area. If your area or acreage is hilly or sloping, use a walking wheel type measuring tool. At this time, measurement is simply to get a general idea of how much fence you might require to complete your job.

Step 3 - Determine your budget

Determine your budget and how much area must be fenced. Does it all need to be fenced right away, or can you do a little at a time?

Step 4 - Consult fencing specialists -

           Derrymore Agri Services Limited

Consult fencing specialists, Derrymore Agri Services Ltd., online, by e-mail or by phone, to get an idea of what kinds of fence are available. There is a huge variety of fencing choices. Is your fence for decorative purposes, or do you need to contain animals? Some animals are more difficult to fence in than others, and will require a more stock-proof fence.

Step 5 - Decide what kind of fence you want.

Decide what kind of fence you want. You may like the look of one type, but the cost may be prohibitive if you have hundreds of meters to fence. For example, on Residential or domestic property?s, one option is to use Post and Rail, or a Picket-Board fence along the front of your property and a less expensive fence, such as Barbed Wire, or Sheep Wire along the sides and back. Drive around and look at fences that are new and old to consider how much maintenance you are willing or able to do each year when determining which material you will use. Even consult with family, friends and neighbours to get their opinions on what fence would best suit your property.

Step 6 - Contact Derrymore Agri Services Ltd. for a Quotation

Once you know the style of fence, and type of material you wish to use, Contact Derrymore Agri Services Ltd., by phone or drop us an e-mail for a full detailed Quotation, and competitive price. Derrymore Agri Services Ltd. will supply and erect all the material required to complete your fencing project.