Virtual fencing saves time and money

Global virtual fencing company Nofence will be showcasing its latest technology at LAMMA – showing how livestock can graze within a defined area out in the field with no physical fencing.

Nofence uses GPS technology, cellular communication, audio signals and solar power to create a virtual fence – all at the touch of a button with a smartphone app, explains the company’s UK general manager Synne Foss Budal.

“When an animal steps over a Nofence boundary, the collars emit an audio cue to warn it of the boundary perimeter. If the animal does not turn around upon hearing the predictable audio cue the collars issue an electric pulse.”

The collars also track the animal’s location. They include specially made solar panels to ensure long-lasting battery life throughout the grazing season. This makes livestock easier to monitor.

“We train the animals to listen for their fence boundary,” says Ms Budal. “So, we are still relying on the animal’s senses to stay within the grazing paramete – but it is hearing rather than visual.” 

Diverse applications

With more than two years of experience in the UK, Nofence has proven to be suitable for both conservation and intensive grazing systems.

“The technology has proved to excel in a diverse set of applications,” says Ms Budal. 

“Our trial work and customer experience have shown that cattle can be grazed on intensive rotational and strip systems while successfully maintaining tight covers.”

Nofence has also been a popular tool for upland producers wanting to maximise land usage and better manage grazing without investing in physical fencing infrastructure.

“It’s also a game-changer for farmers and grazers integrating livestock into arable systems, allowing for flexibility in grazing management while significantly reducing labour and infrastructure costs associated with setting up a grazing system on arable land.”

For more details, visit the Nofence on stand 7.946 in Hall 7.