COOK STATION, MO – Missouri producers can see virtual fencing research, farm drone demonstrations and beef cattle reproduction technology at the University of Missouri’s Wurdack Extension and Education Center field day Friday, Oct. 2.
The free event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near Cook Station. Visitors can also tour facility improvements and learn about research on grazing management and forage systems, according to Eric Meusch, the center’s interim director.
One project uses GPS technology to manage cattle movement without relying solely on physical fences. MU Extension is testing how the system affects labor and pasture use. Meusch said the research is intended to help producers judge where virtual fencing could work on their operations and whether the potential return justifies the cost. The project is supported in part by a one time increase in state funding for MU Extension.
Wurdack Center covers about 1,200 acres along the Meramec River, with pasture, forage ground and forest typical of the Ozarks. Its research and demonstrations are designed to give farmers and landowners practices they can evaluate for their own properties.
The field day is open to the public. Lunch is provided, but advance registration is required. Event details and registration are available online