Virtual fence symposium a success

The Wyoming Game and Fish report that the Northeast Wyoming symposium on virtual fencing for livestock took place Jan. 8, in Gillette was a success and well attended. 

The department reports that approximately 150 people attended, including livestock producers, state and federal agriculture and wildlife agency personnel and representatives from conservation nonprofit organizations. 

The daylong event featured presentations by virtual fence manufacturers, funding agencies, livestock producers who are currently using virtual fence, and more. Discussion and questions included how fewer fences on the landscape can benefit wildlife movement, as well as how livestock producers can use the technology to address conservation concerns such as invasive plant control, incorporate rotational grazing and limit grazing in riparian or other sensitive habitats.

The event was not recorded, however anyone who was unable to attend but wants to learn more about incorporating virtual fence into a livestock operation, can view recordings of a similar event hosted by the East Yellowstone Collaborative in Cody in February of last year. The Greater Yellowstone Coalition is also compiling a digital resource guide on virtual fence that will be available on their website near the end of January.

An updated wildlife-friendly fencing booklet was recently published. It is available online or hard copies can be picked up at Game and Fish regional offices.