Virtual Fencing

Ranchers have long used wood and metal fences to graze cattle in certain areas, but that makes it hard for big game to migrate. Some say virtual fencing could be a win for ranchers and conservationists.

Agriculture industry leaders in the state got together to discuss new technology for cattle producers at a recent Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation conference.A main topic was virtual fencing, which is a relatively new concept. Basically, ranchers draw fence lines on their computers, which are transmitted to collars that cattle wear. When those cows cross the virtual boundary, they get a beep and then a shock.

It's very important when you introduce a new technology, to make sure early adopters don't fail. And I want virtual fencing to work.