By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Extension will host a free field day on November 5, 2026,near Verdigre to showcase virtual fencing technology and grazing management practices. The event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at No Name Creeks Ranch, offering producers a chance to see the technology in use on a working ranch.
Ranch partners Scott and Becky Ravenkamp and Brian and Zoe Vakoc will share how they use virtual fencing to manage livestock and improve grazing efficiency. Participants will learn how GPS-enabled collars and digital boundaries help guide livestock movement without relying entirely on traditional fencing.
No Name Creeks Ranch, which raises fullblood Akaushi cattle, has integrated virtual fencing into its rotational grazing system. The technology has allowed the operation to increase grazing flexibility and expand the use of small ruminants within its management program.
Attendees will see demonstrations of how virtual paddocks are established and managed to support grazing rotations. The program will also highlight the ranch’s experience using virtual fencing collars with sheep and other livestock.
The field day will include discussions on pasture improvement and conservation efforts, such as eastern redcedar removal, prescribed burning, and practices aimed at improving grassland health and wildlife habitat. Cassidy Wessel of Nebraska Game and Parks will explain how these land management strategies support productive grazing systems.
Producers will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from ranch operators and extension specialists. Those interested in attending can RSVP or obtain additional information by contacting Ben Beckman with Nebraska Extension at ben.beckman@unl.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: Nebraska, Education, Livestock