Mine is mapping. I am a big OpenStreetMap contributor and I have mapped many towns near me that were previously completely unmapped.
I’m not exactly sure. A chain link fence is a one time expense as opposed to a hedge which is a living, growing thing and so needs continuing upkeep. And yes, it can take a couple of years before the hedge is ready to be laid… There’s also the used space to consider, as a hedge is a lot wider than a fence.
I guess it really depends on your specific situation.
My dad built a house out in the sticks. He initially built a fence out of pallets, but it didn’t stand the test of time. Upon looking into various fence options, he realized that even the cheap ones aren’t cheap. I don’t think he’s ever considered a hedgerow, so I wondered if it might be an option. Aside from the cost, I doubt he’d have the patience for it, from the sound of it.