Working Ranch Magazine Summer 2025

Gallagher Portable Electric Fence

Solar and battery-powered ener gizers are options when an electrical power source is unavailable. However, this may limit electrical output, mak ing it very important to consider the size of the fence that’s powered by alternative power. Because fencing options are so var ied, it is highly recommended that you speak with an experienced fence supplier to install an effective fence for a specific site. VIRTUAL Virtual fencing, such as Gallagher’s eShepherd, is a new technology that offers advantages for rotational grazing systems and improves feed utilization. Gallagher’s product is a solar-powered, GPS-enabled live stock neckband that allows livestock graziers to draw a virtual fence any where on their property. Cattle learn to move with and remain within the virtual barrier. When an animal wearing a neck band approaches the fence, the neck band emits an audio cue (beep). If the

PHOTO COURTESY OF GALLAGHER FENCING

animal ignores the cue and continues toward the fence, the neckband deliv ers an aversive but harmless pulse. eShepherd cues are automated, pre dictable, and avoidable, so animals

quickly learn to respond to the audio cue after two to seven interactions. Large mobs may take 48 hours to seven days to be trained to the fence, while smaller herds typically learn to inter act with the fence in a shorter time. The technology has been devel oped to align with the RSPCA’s (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) five domains of animal welfare. Developers also worked with several Animal Ethics Committees and governing agencies to help ensure a positive outcome for healthier and happier animals. A PC, tablet, or mobile phone is used to manage the fence. As long as the device can connect to the inter net, the virtual fence can be estab lished on the operation and managed from anywhere in the world. “But you might use e-fencing for wildlife management, dealing with forest fires and destruction of fences, protecting riparian areas, or simply containment and the peace of mind of knowing where cattle are,” Liebergreen says. “Labor savings with e-fencing are large. For example, staff can do many other jobs rather than maintaining physical fences or repeatedly shift ing portable fences. Cross-fencing is SUMMER 2025 I 33

PHOTO COURTESY OF GALLAGHER FENCING