Western ranches often encounter resource constraints during response and recovery phases, rendering them susceptible to various environmental challenges like droughts, wildfires, floods, and extreme weather. Consequently, CSU researchers have recognized the necessity for technological advancements to enhance monitoring and control of livestock movement in these regions.

This pilot project investigated the potential of virtual fencing technology facilitated by GPS collars and the implementation of virtual boundaries to reshape range management practices affected by climate change.

Researchers assessed the efficacy of GPS collars on livestock, enabling ranchers to establish programmable virtual boundaries for containing animals. The virtual fencing collars acted as one-way gates, offering customizable boundaries to confine livestock to desired areas as needed by farmers.