Ralph Mitchell Zoo has three adult elk, which are contained in an approximately 2-acre enclosure on the north end of the zoo, at the intersection of Wells Drive and N. 5th Street. The enclosure is bordered by two perimeter fences, spaced approximately 15 ft apart. The interior fence serves the primary purpose of containing the elk to their exhibit, while the exterior fence serves as a buffer to keep zoo visitors at a safe distance. Both fences are constructed of 6 inch round wooden posts on 12 ft centers, with woven wire stretched between at a height of 6 ft and double strands of wire at a height of 8 ft. The condition of the interior fence has been assessed and determined to be inadequate for the purpose of containing large animals. The total linear footage of the interior fence line is approximately 1,800 ft. This includes divider fences between the elk exhibit and the alpaca exhibit. The replacement fence should be constructed of welded steel pipe fencing with 4” vertical posts and 2 3/8” horizontal top, bottom, and middle rails. Posts should be placed at intervals of 10’ with post bases set in concrete at a depth of 3‘. 12 ½ gauge hi-tensile black woven wire should be stretched between the posts to a height of 8’. Rock or gravel should be placed under the bottom rail to prevent animals from tunneling under the fence. Installation of five 10’ single panel swing gates and two 5’ swing gates should be included in the bid. Gate locations will be specified by the Zoo Director. All posts, rails, and gates should be painted black.
