Electric Cattle Fence Safety on the Little Sioux River

Identifying Electric Cattle Fences in Rivers

Electric cattle fences crossing rivers typically consist of:

• Single or multiple strands of wire, often at varying heights

• Wire attached to posts on both riverbanks

• May be nearly invisible from upstream, especially in low light

• Often accompanied by warning signs on fence posts

• Wire may sag into the water or be positioned just above water level

• Insulators visible on fence posts indicating electrical system

Step-by-Step Process for Safely Crossing Electric Cattle Fences

Before Approaching:

1. Stop paddling at least 50 feet upstream when you spot a fence

2. Scout the crossing from your boat to assess wire height and position

3. Look for warning signs or electrical insulators confirming it's electrified

4. Check for the safest crossing point - usually where wire is highest above water

5. Put on personal flotation device if not already wearing one

Crossing Procedure:

1. Approach slowly in single file if in a group

2. Duck down completely - get as low as possible in your boat

3. Keep paddle horizontal and close to the boat to avoid snagging

4. Do not touch the wire with any part of your body, paddle, or equipment

5. Pass under quickly but carefully - don't rush and risk losing balance

6. Keep your head and body well below the wire throughout the crossing

7. Continue downstream until completely clear before sitting up

If Wire is Too Low to Pass Under:

1. Do not attempt to go over or push the wire up

2. Exit the river safely on the upstream side if possible

3. Portage around the fence crossing on land (with landowner permission)

4. Re-enter downstream of the fence crossing

How to Navigate Around Electric Cattle Fences

Upstream Portage Option:

1. Pull out on river left or right at least 100 feet before the fence

2. Seek landowner permission if crossing private property

3. Carry boats and gear around the fence crossing area

4. Walk parallel to the river staying well clear of fence lines

5. Re-enter the river at least 50 feet downstream of the crossing

6. Check for additional fence lines before proceeding

Alternative Route Planning:

1. Use current river maps to identify known fence crossings

2. Plan portage points in advance when possible

3. Contact local outfitters or DNR for current fence locations

4. Consider alternative launch/exit points to avoid problematic sections

Emergency Procedures if Caught or Tangled

If You Contact the Fence:

1. Stay calm - most cattle fence voltages are painful but not lethal

2. Move away immediately from the wire

3. Check for injuries - electrical contact can cause muscle spasms

4. Get to shore quickly if you feel disoriented

5. Seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe burns

If Equipment Gets Tangled:

1. Do not reach for tangled gear while it's in contact with the wire

2. Move yourself away from the fence first

3. Wait for the electrical pulse cycle to end (fences pulse on/off)

4. Use a non-conductive object (dry wooden paddle handle) to free equipment

5. Cut the line with wire cutters as a last resort, but notify landowner immediately

General Safety Precautions

Pre-Trip Planning:

• Check with local authorities about known fence crossings

• Carry wire cutters in your safety kit for emergencies

• Travel with others - never paddle alone in areas with fence crossings

• Inform someone of your route and expected return time

On-River Awareness:

• Watch for fence posts on riverbanks indicating potential crossings

• Be extra cautious around bridges where fences often cross

• Look ahead constantly - fences can be hard to see until you're close

• Don't paddle at dusk or dawn when visibility is poor in fence-prone areas

Weather Considerations:

• Avoid paddling during storms - wet conditions increase electrical hazard

• Be extra cautious after flooding - fence height may have changed

• Check fence condition - damaged fences may have loose wires in water

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Respect private property - seek permission before portaging across land

• Don't damage fences - farmers depend on them for livestock control

• Report fence problems to landowners - loose wires are dangerous for everyone

• Follow Leave No Trace principles when portaging around obstacles

Emergency Contacts

Always carry waterproof emergency contact information including:

• Local emergency services (911)

• Non-emergency sheriff/conservation officer numbers

• Local hospital/urgent care locations

• DNR emergency contact numbers

Remember: When in doubt, portage around. No recreational activity is worth risking serious injury from electrical contact.