Expanding Grazing Opportunities in Cornwall with Virtual Fencing
A farm in Cornwall is using virtual fences to graze Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and improving grass utilization and enhancing biodiversity.
In the heart of Cornwall, young dairy and beef farmer Harry Dark is embracing new technology to improve his grazing management.
With a strong focus on efficiency and sustainability, Harry recently introduced Monil’s virtual fencing system for two reasons. Harry wanted to optimize his infields and explore new grazing areas, including woodland and conservation pastures.
Seamless Setup for Smarter Grazing
To get started, Harry secured the devices using a squeeze chute for safety and efficiency by locking the band on one end before placing it over each cow’s neck. All 45 cattle were fitted with their devices in under an hour and registered in the Monil app. “It was surprisingly straightforward,” Harry noted. “Once we got into a rhythm, the whole process went faster than I expected. I also really like the design of the collars; they seem very robust but also lightweight and comfortable for the cows.”
Training in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
With the devices mounted on the animals, the next step was to train the herd for one week in a controlled area. The lush pastures of Harry’s farm are set in one of Cornwall’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This location provided the perfect idyllic backdrop for this transition. As the cows gradually adapted to respect the virtual boundaries, they quickly learned to appreciate the system, responding well to the audio cues.
Now trained, the technology allows Harry to move his herds precisely, optimizing grass use while reducing the need for physical fencing.
“The ability to control grazing without putting up permanent fences has opened up new possibilities,” Harry explained. “We’re already seeing the benefits in improved pasture use, and I’m excited about integrating more conservation grazing into our system.”
Planning for a Sustainable Future
Looking ahead, Harry is eager to expand virtual fencing beyond his infields, introducing his cattle onto carefully managed woodland grazing areas. “I’m really happy with how they’re working so far. I was impressed with how the cattle took to them so quickly, and the app is simple and easy to use.”
In a discussion with Monil’s Head of Farmer Success, he outlined his goals for the season: improving grass utilization, enhancing biodiversity, and streamlining herd movements.
“Being part of this project has been a great experience,” Harry said.
“The support from the Monil team has been invaluable - not just in getting started but in helping me set clear goals and refine how we manage our grazing. It’s exciting to be at the forefront of something that has the potential to change the way we farm for the better.”
Monil is thrilled to work with Harry and the opportunity to contribute to increased biodiversity, more grazing for his herd, and easier management of his operations.
If you want to see the effects that Harry has had on his farm on your own farm, get in touch today for a non-binding conversation about how virtual fences can expand your grazing opportunities.
