The concept of virtual fencing technology has been around for decades but continues to evolve. Virtual fencing uses behavior modification based on audio and electrical cues from a collar device to keep cattle within a virtual boundary using GPS. The collar can be controlled by a phone, tablet or computer using cellular data.
The advantages of virtual fencing include:
- Less logistically challenging
- Less labor intensive
- Greater management flexibility
- Gives data on how, when and where cattle graze, allowing for better resource management
- Cattle location tracking
- Cost effective in certain situations
Learn how these four cattle producers and families are using virtual fencing on their operations.
eShepherd: Decrease Labor Costs and Increase Stocking Rates
Virtual fencing offers Wild Olive Cattle Company flexibility in grazing the dry, brushy country of their south Texas ranch.
Halter: Solar Charged Collars Aid Rancher Response to Summer Challenges
Before the summer heat sets in, Brent Hackley can move cattle from the comfort of his home using virtual fencing technology.
Nofence: Maximize Multi-Species Grazing and Small Paddock Advantage
Virtual fencing provides options for Mark Mueller’s small pastures and not-so-great physical fences.
Vence: Innovative Grazing Solutions Post-Wildfire
After wildfires scorched about half of their BLM allotment in summer 2024, the Thompson family was still able to winter graze thanks to virtual fencing.
When considering virtual fencing, ask yourself these questions:
- What are my objectives and goals with using this technology?
- Am I going to use the technology year-around or for limited seasons?
- Am I going to use the technology on private land and/or public lands?
- Is it worth it to my operation to purchase VF technology?
- Do I have good cell coverage or not?
- Do I want to change batteries or not?
Your Next Read: Making Virtual Fence More Accessible to Ranchers
