This introductory information is primarily focused on solar-powered water pumping systems for tenant farmers and for systems designed for use only during freeze-free months. The information and the referenced demonstration systems are to help enhance pasture management options, while excluding livestock from surface streams, in situations where a permanent watering system may not currently be possible for the site. A permanent watering system is needed for ongoing year-round usage. Please refer to the resources listed in this publication for more general information and contact your local USDA Service Center to explore options for permanent livestock watering systems.

Endophyte-infected tall fescue is the dominant forages in Virginia. As such, it is imperative to manage this important forage resource wisely. Ergot alkaloids produced by fescue’s fungal endophyte create challenges to accomplishing this. Tests for endophyte presence and alkaloid levels are important management tools that producers can use to minimize alkaloid consumption and the negative impacts of on animal performance. Consistent testing methods are important for adequately assessing alkaloid levels and for making comparisons among pastures over time. These results then can be used to develop a custom grazing strategy to avoid severe incidences of fescue toxicosis. Repeated testing during a grazing season can help determine possible benefits to pasture renovation or addition of legumes. Similar to testing forages for nutrient concentrations and devising a winter feeding and supplement plan, testing fescue-based pastures for endophyte infection level and for ergot alkaloid concentrations at various times during the year can facilitate management to reduce alkaloid consumption and also help determine if further mitigation is needed.

Fall stockpiling for winter grazing has been a common practice for many years to extend the grazing season in Virginia. Despite an abundance of spring pasture growth that is commonly harvested for hay, the need for fall forage often limits the acreage that can be set aside for winter grazing. A novel practice developed at the Shenandoah Valley Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SVAREC) called “summer stockpiling” enhances a producer’s ability to maximize fall stockpiled acreage and consistently extend the grazing season.

Understanding how electric fences work and the physics behind their operation is helpful when installing an electric fence system, and especially useful when troubleshooting performance issues. This publication, one of a series on Electric Fencing, provides a basic overview of how an electric fence works and how to train livestock to electric fencing

Proper selection and installation of an energizer is a critical component of a properly operating electric fence. This publication, one of a series on Electric Fencing, guides the reader through how to size and select an energizer to fit their operation, as well as how to place and install an energizer within the electric fence system.

Electric fencing energizers are commonly damaged by lightning, either directly by lightning strikes on the fence side, or indirectly on the utility side by power surges that are often caused by lightning strikes. This publication, one of a series on Electric Fencing, reviews how to protect the energizer in both cases.

An adequate grounding system is essential for an effective electric fence. Unfortunately, poor grounding is a leading cause of problems with electric fencing. This publication, one of a series on Electric Fencing, reviews how to size and install a grounding system to maximize the shocking potential of the electric fence.

While proper installation of an electric fence and grounding system will minimize problems, downed trees, heavy vegetation, broken components or other issues can lead to poor performance. This publication, one of a series on Electric Fencing, reviews how to troubleshoot issues with low fence voltage or a nonfunctioning fence.

Virginia Cooperative Extension takes pride in the premise that vital programming is based on the issues, problems, and needs of the people. A thorough analysis of the situation provides context for understanding and addressing these problems. Each local office updates their situation analysis every 4-5 years.