Small farmers in canada with sheep and goat may be interested in some new virtual fending research. Researchers have started evaluating virtual fencing technology as part of a broader effort to modernize livestock management and assess how well it fits small ruminant production systems.
The project, which began in March in the United States at Lincoln University (LU) of Missouri, relies on solar-powered animal collars paired with dedicated software to establish virtual grazing boundaries. This removes the need for conventional physical fencing and offers a more flexible approach to managing pastureland.
Developed by Nofence, the collars are fitted around the necks of sheep and goats and are connected to a mobile application used by farm staff. Through the app, managers can monitor animal movement in real time and define grazing zones.
When animals near a set boundary, the collars first produce an audible warning. If the animal continues moving forward, a mild electric stimulus is delivered as a deterrent.
“Virtual fencing is a topic that’s creating a lot of buzz in the livestock world right now,” said Chris Boeckmann, superintendent of LU’s farms.
“However, there are also a lot of questions and reservations about the technology. Ultimately, producers want to know what the technology has to offer in terms of pasture management and profitability.”
The initial trial is taking place at the George Washington Carver Farm, where a small group of sheep has already been fitted with the devices. Lincoln University plans to gradually scale up the system to include its full herd of approximately 550 sheep and goats, with possible future expansion to cattle.
“Our role is to help producers get answers and to demonstrate the technology in action,” Boeckmann said.
“Since we are the lead institution for small ruminant production in Missouri, it seemed logical to incorporate the technology into our pasture management systems for small ruminants.”
Researchers also expect benefits such as improved rotational grazing efficiency and reduced labour requirements across farm operations.