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ARS Home » Plains Area » Las Cruces, New Mexico » Range Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #170949
Title: A MOVING VIRTUAL BOUNDARY (VB TRADEMARK)

Author
item Anderson, Dean
item Frederickson, Eddie
item Havstad, Kris
item NOLEN, BARBARA - NMSU LTER
item NAYAK, PURUSHOTHAM - NEW MEXICO STATE UNIV
item HALE, CRAIG - FUTURE SEGUE

Submitted to: Chihuahuan Desert Symposium
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/15/2004
Publication Date: 10/15/2004
Citation: Anderson, D.M., Fredrickson, E.L., Havstad, K.M., Nolen, B., Nayak, P., Hale, C.S. 2004. A moving Virtual Boundary (VB trademark) [abstract]. Sixth Symposium on the Natural Resources of the Chihuahuan Desert Region, October 14-17, 2004, Alpine, Texas. p. 16.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Distributing free-ranging animals across a landscape to facilitate proper forage utilization is universally challenging to range livestock managers. By combining Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, Geographical Information System (GIS) methodology and a practical knowledge of animal behavior, we have developed a methodology for autonomously controlling free-ranging animals. Directional Virtual Fencing (DVF trademark) uses programmable sensory cues administered at the proper time and in the correct location on the animal to keep animals within a Virtual Paddock (VP trademark) delineated by a Virtual Boundary (VB trademark). Using Arc GIS 9 Tracking Analyst software, the geospatial animal data were visually depicted to move within the VP as the north and south VB moved in tandem in time and space across the landscape. Being able to manage grazing pressure using DVF will provide Prescription Stocking (RxS trademark) without the challenges wire fencing places on conventional rotational stocking strategies.