Move cattle to new pastures virtually
Greg Thoren discusses soil health with farmers at the Illinois Grazing Lands Coalition Pasture Walk in 2024. © Rosalie Trump
Greg Thoren has transformed his farm into a showcase of sustainable livestock grazing, cutting-edge technology, and soil health advancements.
Greg grazes over 100 head of cattle and sells grass-fed and finished beef direct to consumers.
Utilizing Gallagher neck bands, Greg can create grazing paddocks with use of a mobile app. © Rosalie Trump
Embracing New Technology with Virtual Fencing
One of the most innovative aspects of Greg’s operation is his use of virtual fencing technology. Utilizing Gallagher neck bands, Greg can create grazing paddocks through a mobile app, allowing for precise cattle movements. While he keeps poly wire fencing as a backup, the virtual fencing system has significantly streamlined his workflow.
“It’s been a game-changer. The time I spend moving cattle has been cut in half. It’s an investment upfront, but when you factor in the labor savings, it pays for itself.”
Virtual fencing not only offers flexibility but also reduces the physical demands of managing grazing rotations, enabling Greg to focus on other aspects of his farm.
Integrating Livestock on Cropland
Greg began experimenting with cover crops in 2012. Today, he takes his regenerative approach a step further and incorporates livestock grazing on cover crop acres.
By integrating livestock into his cropland, Greg has seen multiplied effects on soil health and biodiversity. Grazing cattle on cover crops enhances nutrient cycling and fosters a thriving ecosystem, making his farm more resilient and productive. This year, his cattle grazed a multispecies cover crop mix following harvest.
Greg’s farm stands as proof that regenerative agriculture can succeed in northern climates. He encourages other producers to start small and embrace experimentation. He suggests that the key to success is to learn from failures, as he has, and adapt to what works best for your operation.
On November 16, 2024 Greg Thoren welcomed fellow producers to his farm in northern Illinois for an Illinois Grazing Lands Coalition (ILGLC) pasture walk.