By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University researchers are exploring virtual fencing, a technology that could revolutionize livestock management, as part of a national effort to introduce precision agriculture technologies to ranching, a traditionally physical fencing-dependent field.
Virtual fencing represents a significant leap forward, offering potential benefits like labor reduction, eliminating the need for traditional fencing, and facilitating rotational grazing. Spearheaded by Zac Carlson, NDSU Extension beef cattle specialist and assistant professor, the study received a grant to examine how these technologies could integrate crop and livestock systems across the region.
NDSU’s research is conducted at three centers: the Central Grasslands Research Extension Center (CGRC) near Streeter, the Carrington Research Extension Center, and the NDSU-Fargo campus. Each location contributes unique insights, with focus areas ranging from strip grazing on cropland to enhanced grazing efficiency and wildlife habitat.
Virtual fencing operates via GPS tracking collars on cattle, connected to mobile devices. These collars, with a battery life of 6-7 months, can be solar powered for extended use. The technology requires a training process for cattle, involving auditory alerts and electric stimuli to establish boundary awareness.
The researchers are exploring virtual fencing's application in different settings, including cropland where cattle graze on annual forages and cover crops. Traditional methods like cross fencing, used for rotational or strip grazing, could be replaced by this innovative system, maximizing forage utilization and offering greater management flexibility.
The study also includes practical considerations, such as the use of mobile base stations to facilitate relocation to various grazing areas. This flexibility is vital for testing virtual fencing in diverse settings, from pasturelands to crop fields.
NDSU's pilot study, a precursor to a more extensive three-year study starting in fall 2024, involves 40 cows at each location. The trial aims to iron out any operational challenges and assess grazing behavior under different management strategies.
Beyond its practical applications, the study also addresses broader ecological concerns, such as wildlife habitat restoration and efficient land use. As part of this research, NDSU is committed to sharing findings through annual Extension programming and demonstrations, helping ranchers make informed decisions about adopting these technologies.
NDSU's study is a significant step towards modernizing livestock management, potentially leading to more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective ranching practices. It bridges the gap between traditional methods and modern technology, paving the way for a new era in precision agriculture.
Photo Credit - istock-urbancow
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock