Virtual fences in Scotland have become mainstream as the Scottish government supports cutting-edge livestock technology with full funding under the new grant scheme.
The government recognizes virtual fencing as a capital investment targeted for funding, based on the newly launched future Agricultural Infrastructure Scheme (FFIS).
Announced on July 15th, FFIS provides up to 100% funding to farmers and Crofters who invest in infrastructure that supports eco-efficiency and climate resilience.
Including virtual fencing marks a key milestone in pushing more sustainable and flexible livestock management across Scotland.
The decision follows previous approval of Virtual Fencing under the Crofting Agricultural Grants Scheme (CAGS), indicating an increase in government support for innovative agricultural technologies.
Agri-Tech Firm Nofence says its virtual fencing system uses GPS-enabled colors that are connected to the mobile app via a cellular network.
Farmers and Crofters can remotely set and adjust the boundaries of grazing, eliminating the need for physical fences.
According to Nofence, this scalable system reduces the workforce, increases flexibility and allows for better monitoring. It is especially useful for challenging topography such as hillsides, woodlands and conservation areas.
Rory Fyfe, manager of Kinkell Byre near Rewilding Kinkell Project and St Andrews, praised the technology for its ease and versatility.
“The collar works very well for us. They can easily manage and move around the cows, which is important in such complex landscapes with cliffs, roads and public access.
“And the public can see where the cows are, using the best online access tool for local pedestrians and visitors.”
Virtual fencing also unlocks access to ecologically sensitive areas that are unrealistic or costly for the fence, such as coastal routes and steep slopes.
This allows for targeted conservation grazing, enhancing biodiversity and land regeneration.
The Rewilding Kinkell project is a prominent example, integrating agriculture with conservation and tourism.
“Grawing this sector for the benefit of biodiversity is a huge collaboration and we have been using the nofence collar with great success,” says Fyfe.
Nofence believes that technology that benefits nature is important for the future of agriculture and provides not only economic and operational benefits, but also support environmental outcomes and farmer well-being.
The FFIS application window will be closed on August 22, 2025.
