The Smileys transitioned their land management strategy by dividing pastures into specific grazing cells to allow the semi-arid grasslands extended rest periods. To manage the herd without installing physical barriers, they rely on a virtual fencing system known as Vence, which uses satellite-linked cattle collars emitting audio warnings and mild electrical pulses. This controlled movement has significantly bolstered soil moisture retention and native plant root networks across the pastures. The resulting variety in vegetation heights offers diverse food and shelter, driving a clear rise in wildlife, particularly nesting grassland birds.
Key points
Replacing continuous pasture feeding with rotational grazing provides native plants the n…: Replacing continuous pasture feeding with rotational grazing provides native plants the necessary rest to recover root systems.
Virtual fencing technology eliminates the requirement for physical fencing while enabling…: Virtual fencing technology eliminates the requirement for physical fencing while enabling precise herd movements across diverse plots.
Restored grassland diversity directly supports ecological recovery by providing essential…: Restored grassland diversity directly supports ecological recovery by providing essential food, shelter, and nesting habitats for wildlife.
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A ranching family in South Dakota has reported a major increase in plant and wildlife diversity after changing how they manage their cattle. Nearly a decade after adopting rotational grazing and satellite-based fencing, Caden and Jori Smiley say their land has healthier grass, more plant varieties and a growing number of wild animals. Caden Smiley returned to his family's ranch near Kadoka, South Dakota, in 2016. He and his wife, Jori, later moved away from traditional grazing methods and introduced a system that allows grasslands to recover between periods of grazing. In a report to the Tri-State Neighbor, the couple said the changes, supported by virtual fencing technology, have improved the condition of their pastures and helped wildlife return to the ranch.
A technological shift in pastures
The biggest change at Smiley Ranch has been the move to rotational grazing. Instead of allowing cattle to feed in the same pasture throughout the season, the system moves them between different sections of land. When Caden returned to the family ranch in 2016, he said the operation followed "conventional grazing, pretty standard…
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