Deer and elk feed on grasses, shrubs and vines. They chew buds, spurs, shoots and leaves of all varieties of grapes. Damaged vines may never develop into commercially productive plants. Antler rubbing may break branches and remove bark.
Properly built and maintained fencing is the most effective — and the only permanent — long-term solution to deer exclusion from vineyards. Scare devices, repellents and shootings are short-term and mainly ineffective deterrents to deer problems in vineyards.
Woven wire fences, although more expensive to construct than electric fences, provide the most reliable protection from deer damage. These fences should be at least 2.4 m high with a 15 cm wire mesh. Secure the mesh close to the ground to prevent deer from crawling underneath.
Avoid using barbed wire for the top of fencing which can injure both deer and non-target wildlife.
Electrified deer fences, although cheaper to build than woven wire fences, have higher maintenance costs and, in general, are less cost-effective than woven wire fences. Vertical fences are more effective than slanted designs. Electric fences should be 1.5-2.1 m high with 7-9 strands of high-tensile smooth wire at 20-30 cm spacing. It is important to use a high-voltage energizer with this type of fence.
For fact sheets about fence design and protecting vineyards from deer, visit the B.C. Agricultural Fencing Handbook web page.
