For small acreage farmers with rabbit problems, upgrading existing fences can be the most cost-effective option.

The recommendation comes from the Darling Downs-Moreton Rabbit Board, which has been successfully keeping one of Queensland’s prime agricultural regions free of the pest for more than 100 years.

Mark Ridge, an inspector for the Rabbit Board, believes fencing will quickly pay itself off.

"Depending on your crop, each rabbit can cost up to $200 in lost production and damage each year. Given the speed at which they breed, in a good year a single female rabbit can produce 100 young (through both her own litters and that of her offspring)," Mr Ridge said.

"So one rabbit left unchecked this year, could be costing you $20,000 by next year. While this is a worst-case scenario, the reality is actually not that far off.

"Some people don’t realise the time and effort – and on-going cost – of control methods such as trapping and shooting.

"If you add it up, fencing is very cost effective in the long term. Especially as most farmers already have fences in place and only need to upgrade them rather than start from scratch.

"If you have small areas or high value crops, installing rabbit-proof fences is the best solution," Mr Ridge said.

David Sorley, Queensland Territory sales manager for Waratah fencing, says it is essential for fences to be properly constructed in order to maintain their integrity over time.

"There are several techniques and products that farmers should use to keep their crops protected," David said.

"Correct heights and designs are essential, and combined with quality products, will produce a safe and solid fence.

"Using Waratah’s Longlife wire for instance, will increase the life of the fence as they last up to three times longer than standard galvanised products.

"Farmers also often forget about the crucial need for foot netting to keep rabbits from burrowing underneath fences. Foot netting should to be at least 15cm below ground and slightly overlapping the netting above to be rabbit proof," David said.

"Netting was actually the first pre fabricated product Waratah produced back in the 1800s, and it was designed especially for rabbits. Using some of these old designs along with new technologies, products and ideas, we can increase the life and resilience of the fences while eradicating rabbits from specific areas.

"They cause millions of dollars of damage every year – up to a billion according to some research – so it’s important to get it right and keep them out," David said.

To view the fence design and product specifications developed by Waratah and the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board, click here. The design can be used ‘as is’ or modified to suit your situation. Take the diagram to your local reseller to purchase the appropriate Waratah fencing products.