They should be designed to hold the maximum number of cattle to be worked at any one time. For example, a producer with 30 cows needs a minimum of two pens. However, other pens could be added for more flexibility. Holding pens interconnected with a common alleyway provide ideal sorting capabilities. Cattle can be held in the alleyway and sorted into one of the adjacent holding pens.
Cost often prohibits the installation of solid fencing in all cattle sorting and working areas.
A wire fence will be sufficient if a single row of planks at eye-level add enough substance so that cattle can see the fence and will not try to run through it. The holding pens must have direct access to the crowding pen, working alley and headgate. Water, shade and feeding facilities in one of the pens enables it to be used for weaning, a sick pen or a bull pen. Width at top inside clear 20 in. Recommended minimum height 45 in.