By Andi Anderson
Iowa livestock farmers have a unique opportunity to explore the benefits of virtual fencing technology at upcoming pasture walks hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the Iowa Beef Center.
This innovative technology, which has gained traction in recent years, promises to revolutionize grazing management by offering cost-effective solutions and increased flexibility in pasture utilization.
Beth Reynolds, a program specialist with Iowa State University Extension and the Iowa Beef Center, emphasized the growing interest in precision agriculture within the livestock industry.
"The livestock industry has really taken an interest in precision ag, and hearing from others with firsthand experience is invaluable when deciding if and how different technologies can be utilized within our personal operations," Reynolds noted.
The pasture walks will feature NoFence, a virtual fencing company that provides producers with advanced technology to manage grazing areas, particularly in challenging or hard-to-fence locations.
Virtual fencing technology not only allows for more effective use of pastureland but also supports rotational grazing systems by providing greater flexibility.
Reynolds highlighted the significance of these events, stating, "Virtual fence is a newer technology that has seen large advancements in the last few years. Opportunities to hear from producers utilizing this technology are still few and far between. The potential for this technology to improve grazing management and forage utilization for all livestock species is huge."
The first pasture walk will take place on September 10 from 5-7 p.m. at Brice Hundling’s farm in Breda, where attendees will learn about the use of virtual fence collars on sheep and cattle.
Hundling will share his experiences in utilizing the collars to expand grazing opportunities, particularly on corn residue.
The second event is scheduled for September 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at Daniel Faidley’s farm in Colfax. Faidley, who uses virtual fencing for goats in vegetation management, will discuss the costs and benefits of the technology in cattle farming. Both events will include meals, with supper provided at the first event and lunch at the second, courtesy of the Jasper County Cattlemen.
These field days are free to attend, but RSVPs are encouraged by September 9 to assist with meal planning. Livestock farmers interested in exploring the potential of virtual fencing are encouraged to participate and gain valuable insights from these innovative pasture walks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: Iowa, Education