Bryce Canyon National Park Fence Survey 1998

Kitchen, Karen

A survey of the boundary fence was conducted during the summer of 1998 to determine the existence and condition of the boundary fence. Cattle trespass is a continuing problem, and a comprehensive survey of the fence will help determine entry points for cattle. It will also provide the information necessary to prioritize future fence construction and repair. The boundary survey revealed that of the 62.5 miles of boundary only 26.8% (26.75 miles) has fence in good condition. Forty percent of the boundary (25 miles) has fence in fair or poor condition. The remaining 33.2% of the boundary (20.75 miles) has no fence. The previous survey in 1990 found that 38% of the boundary was fenced in good condition, 30% in fair to poor condition, and 32% without fence. While some of the change in fence condition between 1990 and 1998 may be due to the definition of what constitutes good or poor fence, it also suggests that the condition of unmaintained fence deteriorates quickly.