From time to time, all livestock producers have fencing that is in need of repair. Often the work occurs on boundary line fences between adjoining landowners. Usually the neighboring landowner is a farmer but increasingly this is not the case. More farms adjoin subdivisions or urban areas now than ever before and this number continues to grow. Residents both non farming and farmers alike may not know what is required by Kentucky fence laws as it related to fence construction and repair.

Seeing the growing need for education in this area, the Madison County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent coordinated a meeting on February 1^st at the Madison County Extension Office. Mr. Clint Quarles, Kentucky Department of Agriculture staff member and attorney specializing in agriculture law, was invited to speak about fence laws and provide an update on how to best resolve fence construction and/or repair disputes. A sponsored meal was served to about 120 residents that attended. Local elected officials including the Sheriff a county magistrate were on hand to speak as well.

Approximately 67% of those who attended the meeting returned surveys at the end. Overall the meeting was very well received. The survey indicated 81% of participants had an increased understanding of Kentucky fence laws, 82% obtained a better understanding of the legal definition of a fence, 53% that as a result of the meeting, will work toward resolving a current fence dispute and 73% demonstrated confidence in their ability to find appropriate resources to settle a fence construction disagreement.