Virtual Fencing Tour Gives Producers Hands On Look

The University of Nebraska and Iowa State University are teaming up for a two day bus tour in June focused on virtual fencing practices and grazing management technology.

The tour will take producers to ranches in Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska where multiple virtual fencing systems are already being used in cattle operations.

Day one of the tour starts June 16 in Lincoln, Nebraska before heading to Rolling Prairie Ranch near Hatfield, Missouri. That operation uses the Halter virtual fencing system.

Later that afternoon, the group travels to Mud Ridge Ranch near Red Oak, Iowa where producers will get a look at the Nofence system in action.

Virtual fencing technology has become one of the fastest growing management tools in the grazing industry. The systems use GPS enabled collars that allow ranchers to create grazing boundaries digitally instead of relying on traditional barbed wire or electric fencing.

When cattle approach a virtual boundary, the collar first uses sound and behavioral cues to turn the animal away before eventually delivering a mild electric pulse if the animal continues forward.

Supporters say the technology can help producers improve grazing rotation, reduce fencing labor and better manage difficult terrain.

Several companies are now competing in the growing virtual fencing market including Halter, Nofence, eShepherd and Merck Animal Health’s Vence system.

Merck says its Vence technology is already being used on more than 250 ranches across the United States, with strong adoption seen in Colorado, Wyoming and parts of the Plains.

The second day of the tour moves to the Eastern Nebraska Research Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska. Researchers and industry representatives will discuss ongoing grazing studies and practical applications for virtual fencing in commercial cattle operations.

The event also includes a producer panel discussion focused on challenges, costs and lessons learned from ranches already using the technology.

Organizers say interest in virtual fencing continues growing as producers look for ways to improve grazing efficiency while reducing labor and infrastructure costs.

The registration deadline for the tour is June 9. Cost for the event is $200 and includes transportation, lodging and meals.