Hercules Fence

Scope Of Work

 purpose  this  for  National Zoo’s Smithsonian Biological Conservation Institute (SBCI) in Front Royal, Virginia was to provide a safe environment for  endangered whooping crane. There are less than 900   birds on  planet   objective is to breed  help create a self-sustaining population. Hercules partnered with Kee  from Winchester, Virginia to construct five 50’ x 150’ rectangular enclosures that effectively prevent escape as well as invasion by predators.  five enclosures were each divided into 3 pens  50’ x 50’  double gates were necessary throughout to allow  keepers to pass between  pens. Door type hinges were used so that gaps between frame  posts were as  as possible to prevent young cranes from escaping. Materials used include 12 foot high chain link fence with a dig barrier to prevent intruders. Overhead netting prevents  birds from flying away; this is supported by four ½” steel cables run from  corner posts attached with eye bolts to a 16’ high center post  each pen. Corrugated plastic pipe was installed to cover  top rail to protect  net. To improve stabilization   entire structure, overhead bracing was added across aisleways  ½” steel cables were attached on  outside perimeter  affixed to helical screws which were embedded  concrete. Additionally, wire insulators were installed on  exterior fence so that charged wired could be used for further prevent intrusion. Outside  Hercules’ scope was  addition   ponds   plumbing necessary to maintain fresh water in  features. This  is valued at $400k+  completion took approximately 8 weeks.