MU Extension offers March updates on Missouri fencing laws

Missouri landowners and renters can learn about the state’s fencing and boundary laws at sessions offered by University of Missouri Extension.

Under a new state law that went into effect last October, livestock owners would not be liable for damage caused by livestock unless found negligent in fencing practices, says MU Extension agricultural business specialist Joe Koenen.

Koenen will teach a class on fencing law 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 7. The sessions will be held at various sites throughout the state via Skype. MU Extension faculty moderate the sessions at local sites.

“This is one of MU Extension’s most popular sessions, so I suggest early registration,” he says.

Missouri’s fencing laws are complex, Koenen says. “Missouri is unique because it has a general fence law and 19 counties have a local fence law.” It is important for property owners and renters to understand the unique standards of each, he says.

Koenen and other MU Extension specialists will offer insight into fence maintenance for row crop and livestock owners, renters and small-acreage owners to understand their legal and financial responsibilities. The Skype sessions offer participants time for an interactive question-and-answer period.

To register or for more information, contact Joe Koenen at 660-947-2705 or koenenj@missouri.edu.

The MU Extension publication “Missouri’s Fencing and Boundary Laws: Frequently Asked Questions” (G811) is available for free download at extension.missouri.edu/p/G811.

Locations for the March 7 sessions:

• Macon, MU Extension Center in Macon County, 400 N. Missouri, Suite AB.

• Milan, Milan Livestock Auction, 52825 Business Highway 5.

• Harrisonville, MU Extension Center in Cass County, 201 W. Wall St.

• Maryville, Northwest Technical School, 1515 S. Munn St.

• Steelville, Steelville Telephone Exchange, 61 E. Highway 8.

• Osceola, First Baptist Church, 505 Walnut St.

• New London, MU Extension Center in Ralls County, courthouse basement meeting room, 311 S. Main St.

• Cassville, MU Extension Center in Barry County, 700 Main St., Suite 4.

• Howard County site to be announced. Call or email for more information.

Source: Joe Koenen, 660-947-2705

For more than 100 years, University of Missouri Extension has extended university-based knowledge beyond the campus into all counties of the state. In doing so, extension has strengthened families, businesses and communities.so, extension has strengthened families, businesses and communities.