"Exploring the Boundaries of Virtual Fencing" workshop at the Santa Rita Ranch

Virtual fencing (VF) is a hot topic in rangeland management. This emerging precision livestock management technology has the potential to revolutionize grazing systems by allowing dynamic control of livestock distribution and duration while also reducing the cost of wire fence replacement. But, like any new technology, it can be very complicated.

A free workshop was held at the Santa Rita Ranch on November 16 to better understand virtual fencing. Participants learned about VF components and the differences between vendors. Ranchers using VF at the landscape-scale shared their experiences and perspectives and the art and science of collaring livestock and placing base stations were discussed.