Virtual Fencing: Economic and Policy Implications of an Emerging Livestock Technology for Western Rangelands

Nathan D. DeLay, Daniel F. Mooney, John P. Ritten and Dana L. Hoag

Western Economics Forum, 2024, vol. 22, issue 1

Abstract: Western ranches face many challenges, including drought, labor shortages, wildlife conflicts, and reducing the environmental impact of beef production. Virtual fencing (VF) is a potential tool for addressing these issues. VF allows producers to move herds using virtual boundaries almost instantaneously using Global Positioning System collars, providing flexibility to manage where and when cattle graze. Whereas previous VF studies address on-farm economic considerations, few consider potential broader economic and policy implications. We examine how widespread adoption may affect the Western cattle industry, including labor markets, public lands, ecosystem services, and wildlife conflict. The investigation will help policymakers and extension professionals consider this technology's ‘big picture’ outcomes.

Keywords: Agricultural and Food Policy; Labor and Human Capital; Livestock Production/Industries; Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ags:weecfo:349293

DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.349293

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