Interesting points, and maybe #1 re your fence should be to check the fence laws in your state and/or county.

If you mentioned what sort of cattle (cows, weaned calves, yearlings?) I missed it. Someone else mentioned the possibility of good neighbors who might be willing to at least keep a watchful eye on them and contact you quickly if there is a problem. Good neighbors are a wonderful asset for anyone ranching or farming!!! We are blessed with some great ones, and hope you are, too. NEVER take unfair advantage of them, tho, not even if they somehow invite it! The Golden Rule is especially important if one is keeping or raising animals on their land.

It seems to me it is pretty important that you spend plenty of time planning and preparing for this adventure before even putting up your fence. Have in mind how you are going to do everything from starting the fence, to caring for and handling the animals. This is assuming you don't have much, if any, experience. There can be enough problems for people WITH worlds of experience and lack thereof can cause nightmares!!!! A calm personality is a real asset whether working with your animals, or your neighbors.

Well, you sure do know where to go for 'free advice', so you already have a good start toward success.

mrj