That is the question. I know it is not a common practice for california farms to put a fence around them. I get it. It is a big expense and does not translate into tangible productivity or profitability.
My personal gut feeling tells me I should go ahead and put a strong fence. The kind of fence that will not even allow small animals like dogs and rabbits to enter the farm. Here is my rationale:
- Helps eliminate produce contamination: Think about it. When there is no fence, animals freely trespass, leave those browny "gifts" wherever they please. Most of the time, it won't pose a problem. But, there is a possibility that harmful bacteria may make the journey into produce on the ground, causing e.coli and such stuff. Having a strong fence minimizes this risk.
- Politely keeps those horseback riders away: Farms and orchards are inviting places for gentlemen looking for a nice ground to stroll on their horses. I am sorry but I do not like it even a bit. Given ours is an almond orchard, there is a great hazard of them bumping into tree branches and injuring themselves and their horses. And, yes, I don't like strangers walking into my house without knocking first either.
- Stops illegal trash dumping on farm grounds: Sure, they can still dump it along the fence. Still, it is likely that they will go someplace else to dump their century old sofas and old rags.
I hope I made my case..
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