Virtual Fence - A New Tool for Managing Rangelands

New technology called “Virtual Fencing” is catching on in Idaho and the West.

Virtual Fencing works like an invisible fence for pets but at a much larger scale for livestock and rangeland management.

Our story profiles the experience of Salmon-area ranchers Jay and Chyenne Smith using Virtual Fence technology over the last two years, working in partnership with the Joel Yelich with the University of Idaho, the Salmon-Challis National Forest and BLM.

Using Virtual Fencing pastures on their spring, summer and fall range, the Smiths have been able to graze in the 60,000-acre Diamond-Moose Allotment following the massive Moose Fire by focusing livestock on areas that were lightly burned or unburned by the fire. The experiment has been working well, according to Forest Service officials.

“I think it’s been really beneficial and almost fun to get to do this and learn about it. It’s been a helpful tool, all in all,” said Chyenne Smith, who with her husband, Jay, runs J Lazy S Ranch in Carmen Creek, Idaho, near Salmon.

GPS collars are placed on livestock to track their movements and keep them in Virtual Fence boundaries.

Be aware that Virtual Fencing has some limitations, currently, because it requires a strong cellular signal to work in the remote backcountry. That rules out a number of remote locations in Idaho that have no cell service.

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