Virtual Fencing May Allow Thousands More Cattle to Be Ranched on Land Rather Than in Barns

Reprinted with Permission from World at Large

American ranchers are gradually entertaining the idea of using virtual fence systems—the same kind as used for dogs—to graze more cattle over more space without the cost and hassle of continuous fence upkeep.

The virtual system promises huge benefit for farmers, consumers, and wildlife, as more cows can graze on nutritious grass and fewer have to sit in the feedlot.

North America lost several million of its native grazers in the 19th century, and much of the prairie land that’s left which hasn’t become farmland is missing the ecosystem services the bison herds once provided.

By not having to worry about building fences or overwatching them with cowboys on horseback, larger herds can live semi-natural existences on North American land, helpi