bamboo safe for livestock?

[shepherd's wife]

A bike trail has just been opened behind our farm. It has made our lives a living hell. Whenever someone walks their dog, our sheep go running. Our livestock guard dogs are getting into trouble for chasing bikes. And it seems people are purposely loitering behind our property. I just want our farm back! Someone suggested planting a bamboo screen to block the view of the trail. My question is, would this be harmful to our sheep, horse, goat and cows? Any suggestion as to the best type of bamboo to plant? I want something quick growing and dense. HELP!

[CaroleMeckes]

Hello and I am sorry to hear about the bike trail on the encroaching on your farm sanctuary.

Live stock like to eat bamboo and it is safe for them. You might have to keep the animals away from the bamboo until you get it established.

I'd recommend a cold hardy Phyllostachys species like Phyllostachys nuda or Phyllostachys aureasulcata.

try a seach here at the bamboo forums for "cold hardy bamboo" and you can read some of the previous discussions

Carole