LENNOX, S.D. — Every great innovation begins with a moment of clarity, and for ZahnTech’s founder, Avery Zahn, it came in the most unexpected way. As Avery looked out his window one afternoon, he watched his horse stubbornly push against a corral built with railroad tie fences. Frustrated by their inadequacy, he had an epiphany: “I should build a better fencepost.”
The idea, however, had deeper roots. Avery had previously owned a plastic lining company for PVC pipes. His late father, George Zahn, often encouraged Avery to find a better use for leftover PVC material, a suggestion that lingered in the back of his mind. Years later, this vision became a reality with ZahnTech, a company now transforming plastic waste into durable, eco-friendly fencing solutions.
“At ZahnTech, we’re not just recycling; we’re reimagining the possibilities of waste,” said Dan Elliott, head of marketing and sales, and the creator of the company’s motto: “Give it better than it was given, and leave it better than it was left.” This guiding principle, adopted last spring, encapsulates ZahnTech’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Farming and Building Expertise Shapes the Vision
Joining Avery in leading ZahnTech is Vice President Billy Pollema, who brings a wealth of experience from his background in farming and construction building. “Billy’s practical knowledge has been a cornerstone of our product development,” Elliott explained. “He
understands the structural demands and real-world challenges, ensuring our products meet and exceed expectations.”
What began as an experiment with leftover plastic quickly evolved into a groundbreaking
process. ZahnTech now accepts all types of plastics — items most recyclers won’t touch, from lick tanks to barrels and drums — and transforms them into high-performance fenceposts. Each 4″x4″x8′ post repurposes about 1,600 water bottles or 680 milk jugs, while a larger 6″x8′ round post contains 3,600 bottles or 1,125 jugs.
The manufacturing process is both straightforward and transformative. Plastic waste is ground into pieces, heated, and molded into sturdy posts that are 10 times stronger than wood and 20 times more durable. The posts are pest-resistant, water-proof, and can even be drilled into directly for electric fences.
A Perfect Fit for Horse Owners and Hobby Farms
ZahnTech’s products are designed with the needs of horse owners and hobby farmers in mind. Strong enough to keep horses secure yet requiring little to no maintenance, the posts are an ideal solution for those looking to upgrade their fencing. They also offer a sustainable option for equestrians who value eco-friendly practices.
The company’s commitment to education and sustainability is evident through their Waste:
ReImagined initiative. In partnership with students at Black Hills State University, ZahnTech is promoting awareness about sustainable recycling and encouraging schools, governments, and businesses to rethink waste management.
ZahnTech’s model also provides a zero-cost disposal option for businesses. “We don’t pay for plastic, but companies save on landfill fees,” Elliott explained. “Our process turns waste into something both practical and lasting.”
A Legacy of Innovation
ZahnTech’s fenceposts are already proving their worth across the U.S. Hobby farmers and horse owners alike appreciate their durability, eco-friendliness, and long-term value.
Reflecting on the journey, Avery Zahn shared: “We’re not just building a product; we’re creating a legacy. This is about reimagining what waste can become — transforming it into something meaningful and lasting.”
To learn more about ZahnTech, visit www.zahntech.com or call (605) 202-5192.
