Game and Fish: Northeast Wyoming Virtual Fence Symposium

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department, multiple county conservation districts and several nonprofit conservation organizations will offer an educational symposium on virtual fencing for livestock on Jan. 8, 2026 at the Camplex Central Pavilion Building in Gillette.

Virtual fence is a new and evolving technology that manages livestock movement remotely with electronic collars. The systems use auditory cues and electronic pulses to control livestock movement without a physical fence. 

According to Schmidt, the interest in virtual fencing came into focus after the House Draw Fire. The loss of fencing by producers from the fire is causing many to look at this developing technology that could potentially save them from future losses. Virtual fencing could reduce time required for building, repairing and maintaining traditional wood or wire fences and allow control of livestock movement remotely via computer or cellphone.

Sheridan Community Land Trust and other conservation organizations are exploring virtual fencing to help landowners meet conservation goals such as incorporating rotational grazing, limiting livestock use in sensitive areas such as along streams and supporting increased wildlife movement by animals such as deer, pronghorn and elk.

C. Schmidt

The symposium is free, but pre-registration is required. The symposium will begin at 8 a.m. and end approximately 4 p.m. A free lunch will be provided.

To RSVP, click here. Registration ends on Dec. 15.