Virtual Fencing

Virtual fencing technology offers producers exciting new management solutions that can result in healthier rangelands, improved water quality, and reduced stress and workloads for operators. However, it can be difficult for producers to know whether the technology will work in their operations or fit within their budgets.

Below is information to help producers decide if virtual fencing will work in their operation. There are links to articles and decision tools (including cost-comparison and return-on-investment calculators) to help operators make the most informed decision possible.

SD Soil Health Coalition also offers a program to allow producers to lease virtual fence collars for $8 per collar per month. An application and additional information about that program is also included below.

 

Virtual Fence Resources

Virtual fencing information, resources, and decision tools.

VF Program Application

Click below to apply for participation in the Virtual Fencing Program.

VF Program Information

Details about SD Soil Health Coalition’s virtual fence collar leasing program.

How-To Guides

Step-by-step instructions from setup to daily use.

Photo Gallery

Photos and videos of SDSHC’s virtual collars being installed and used in the field.

A photo of several people standing in a field of cover crops that are about shoulder high.

Soil Health School

The 2026 Soil Health School is set for September 15-17 near Twin Brooks and Marvin, SD.

A photo of several people standing in a field of cover crops that are about shoulder high.

Small Scale Ag
Soil Health School

The 2026 Small Scale Ag Soil Health School is set for Aug. 28 in Huron, SD.

News & Events

Test grain for nitrates before using it as forage

Test grain for nitrates before using it as forage

By Stan Wise With the vast majority of South Dakota in a drought and experiencing high temperatures, grain producers are having to make some tough decisions about their crops. Will those grains produce enough yield to make harvesting them a financially viable option,...

Darling Creek Ranch Named 2026 SD Leopold Award Winner

Darling Creek Ranch Named 2026 SD Leopold Award Winner

Sand County Foundation Dan and Sharon Anderson’s Darling Creek Ranch has been selected as the 2026 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award® recipient. The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil...

Building operational resilience with soil health

Building operational resilience with soil health

By Stan Wise South Dakota Soil Health Coalition PIERRE, SD – Resilience. It’s one of the prizes that keeps conservation-minded land managers striving for improved soil health. Operational resilience in the face of floods, market fluctuations, rising input costs,...