By Scout Nelson
Virtual fence is an innovative technology giving ranchers new ways to manage grazing livestock. Instead of traditional fences, this system uses digital boundaries, allowing more flexibility in managing both rangeland and forage systems.
Researchers at North Dakota State University have studied this technology for three years, focusing on how it can improve grazing strategies and support conservation goals.
To share these findings, NDSU Extension and the Society for Range Management are organizing a field day called Harnessing Virtual Fence Technology to Optimize Grazing and Conservation.
The event will take place on October 7 at the NDSU Central Grasslands Research Extension Center near Streeter, North Dakota, with the support of SenseHub Vence.
The field day will include demonstrations of virtual fence in action, showing ranchers how it can be used to guide livestock while protecting land and water resources. Tour stops will highlight how virtual fence influences wildlife habitat, breeding bird populations, and pollinators.
These demonstrations aim to show how technology can balance livestock needs with conservation outcomes.
Experts will also provide presentations on how the system works under different grazing strategies. Virtual fence is being studied as a tool to promote sustainable livestock production, reduce ranch labor needs, and improve resource management. Organizers emphasize that understanding its effectiveness in different situations is key to adopting the technology.
The event begins at 9:45 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. A free lunch will be provided by sponsors, and transportation will be available for participants between locations. Attendees are encouraged to preregister to help with planning for meals and logistics.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle