How do I stop weeds shorting electric fences now that 2m margins are required to comply with GAEC 14?
A. Spraying under permanently located electric fences within 2m margins to prevent weeds earthing the system was an area of confusion last year. Farmers can spot spray for specific weed problems but cannot go around the whole field spraying under the fence if it is in the 2m margin. You can cut or strim or do a controlled burn as some organic and conventional farmers do, but if you have specific problems that poses animal welfare issues, contact the RPA with full reasons why you think you should have a temporary derogation. (A permanent derogation may be available if you can demonstrate a good environmental or agronomic reason why the electric fence has to be within 2m of the centre of a hedge.) Alternatively, move fences where practicable so they are not in the 2m zones – then you can spray under them across the whole field.
