The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has announced a partnership with Montana's McFarland White Ranch to launch a virtual fence project aimed at transforming ranching and wildlife conservation. The initiative will replace 16 miles of the ranch's internal barbed-wire fencing with a virtual network, enabling remote livestock management through signal towers and GPS collars.

"This project could be transformative for wildlife," said PERC CEO Brian Yablonski. "Virtual fence technology can help conserve open landscapes and protect wildlife migration."

The McFarland White Ranch, situated near Montana's Crazy Mountains, is home to diverse wildlife and rough terrain, making it an ideal test site. Lanie White, who manages the ranch alongside her brother Harrison, expressed enthusiasm about the shift from traditional methods: "We are excited to be on the edge of a new paradigm."

PERC is funding infrastructure for the virtual fence, including purchasing one of six necessary signal towers. Each tower covers approximately 10,000 acres and costs around $12,000. The ranch seeks further support from other conservation partners.

Researchers from PERC will assess the project's impact on wildlife conservation as part of their Conservation Innovation Lab. The lab aims to develop innovative models addressing conservation challenges.

Travis Brammer, PERC’s director of conservation, emphasized the historical context: “For thousands of years, stone walls were used to protect livestock... With today’s rapidly advancing technology, virtual fencing can help sustain traditional livestock and agriculture operations while supporting native wildlife.”

The project promises benefits for both ranchers and conservation efforts by reducing reliance on barbed-wire fences that obstruct wildlife migration.