NICC Tests GPS Collars for Cattle in Soil Health Research Project

Every dollar helps Decorah News chase down the truth on Water Street, not just headlines. Give today. CALMAR, Iowa— CALMAR, Iowa — Northeast Iowa Community College is testing GPS-enabled electronic collars for cattle as part of a multiyear research project aimed at improving soil health, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Community College Alliance for Agricultural Advancement. The virtual fencing technology, deployed at Iowa's Dairy Center about 1 mile south of NICC's Calmar campus, allows producers to manage herd movement through a smartphone app. The system eliminates the need for physical fencing and reduces labor demands associated with sustainable land management. The project focuses on addressing soil compaction, which occurs when cattle remain in one area for extended periods. Compaction creates dense soil layers that restrict root growth and limit water infiltration. By using GPS-enabled collars, producers can more easily implement rotational grazing, a practice shown to increase forage production by 30% to 70%, according to a Drovers report. "Seeing this technology in action is a game-changer," said Brodie Bushman, operations manager for the Northeast Iowa Dairy and Agriculture Foundation. "The cows trained very quickly. I look forward to seeing how this improves our pasture this summer as we fully utilize the technology." The research examines the effects of strip grazing on soil health within no-till and cover crop systems. Cover crops used at the college include cereal rye, triticale, Italian ryegrass, oats and clovers, which help reduce soil compaction and improve long-term productivity. The project also provides hands-on learning opportunities for students. Integrated into coursework in plant biology, beef science and crop management, students work with the Natural Resources Conservation Service to monitor pasture forage growth and soil health over the next five years. Students have also assisted with site installation. Funding from the National Professional Agricultural Student Organization supported installation of perimeter fencing, giving students experience with farm infrastructure alongside digital research tools. "We are at a critical point in agriculture where profitability and sustainability must coexist," said Greg Moklestad, dean of advanced manufacturing, computer science and agriculture. "This work at the Dairy Center is part of a long-term effort to bring modern, sustainable solutions to Northeast Iowa farmers." NICC will share more about the technology and other regenerative practices during the "Beyond the Fence: Grazing, Virtual Fence & Fertilizer Reduction" seminar on Tuesday, March 3, at the Calmar campus and Wednesday, March 4, at the Peosta campus. The free event will feature industry experts and local producers and will offer five continuing education units for certified crop advisers. Attendees are asked to RSVP at iowadairycenter.com, by emailing elsberndmel@nicc.edu or by calling 563-562-3263, ext. 1332. Be the first to know! Sign up for the free newsletter and unlock exclusive updates, breaking news, and tips from around the community.