FarmTech: Halter’s ‘Cow-gorithm’ and Solar-Powered Collars are Changing the Virtual Fencing Landscape

Elena Chavez with Halter provided insight into the company’s virtual fencing technology, its adoption in the U.S., and the impact of recent funding on ranching operations.

CHICAGO, ILL. (RFD NEWS) — Virtual fencing technology is transforming farm management with solar-powered cattle collars, giving ranchers unprecedented control over their herds via smartphone.

Elena Chavez with Halter joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the company’s latest developments, including raising more than $200 million in Series E funding at a $2 billion valuation.

Chavez explained how the technology works, allowing ranchers to manage full herds remotely through the company’s trademarked “Cow-gorithm.”

She noted that while Halter is based in New Zealand, it’s also available across the U.S. Field visits to hundreds of ranches in Colorado have confirmed strong demand, and feedback from early adopters has been positive, with ranchers praising the system’s ability to simplify herd management.

Chavez added that the recent Series E funding will accelerate growth, expand availability, and further benefit ranchers by enhancing operational efficiency.

The company’s virtual fencing technology represents a potential shift in cattle management, offering a modern, data-driven approach to traditional ranching practices.

Related Stories
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels, according to consumers surveyed in the latest K-State Meat Demand Monitor.
The long-term viability of a ranching operation often hinges on how effectively its owners navigate the overlapping layers of IRS regulations, state tax incentives, and USDA disaster programs.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Fed cattle numbers are down two percent in February, according to the latest USDA report. Marketings fell 13 percent, signaling continued pressure on beef prices in 2026.
Galynn Beer of Tidal Grow Agri-Science joined us to discuss challenges in fertility management, the benefits of Align-N, and what growers can expect at Commodity Classic next week.
Iowa farmer Derek Hommer joined us to discuss grain bin safety, ongoing prevention efforts, and the importance of community preparedness during Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety Week.
Congresswoman Celeste Maloy of Utah joins Champions of Rural America to discuss her new leadership role in the Western Caucus and her perspective on the Supreme Court’s ruling on President Trump’s tariff policy.
National FFA Secretary Lilly Nyland talks about the significance of National FFA Week, member engagement, and the influence FFA continues to have on students nationwide.
Tommy Roach with Nachurs Alpine Solutions discuss fertilizer decision-making, plant fertility strategies, and what farmers can learn at Commodity Classic.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.