Andrew Dewey wrote:
 > What do folks think an effective voltage on a fence is to keep
black
 > bears away from bees?

I have no experience with fencing for bears, thankfully, but use
both portable and permanent electrified fences for sheep. We use
a digital voltmeter, which goes to 10,000 volts. The
energizers/chargers  we use will read 8,000 or 9,000 typically,
which is much higer than the 2,000 to 3,500 you are reading. A
well insulated wire in the clear should read the same voltage at
the end as at the energizer  with the 50' length of fence.
 From what I have read - I think it has been discussed in the
past on BEE-L - it will take more than that to deter bears.
A good ground system is essential, using more than one rod.
You might want to obtain a catalog from Premier Fencing for
reference purposes. Their 2004 catalog has some excellent
information on page 84. It explains ratings, which are in joules,
impedance, ground systems, fence resistance, etc.  Website is at
www.premier1supplies.com

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