How Virtual Fence is Solving Real Problems for Real Ranchers

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Jim Strickland, a sixth-generation Florida rancher managing multiple operations across the state. Together, they discuss how Vence’s virtual fencing technology is transforming ranch management—helping producers through hurricanes, improving wildlife habitats, protecting calves from predators, and creating new opportunities for conservation.

Jim shares real-world examples from his ranches, from reducing calf losses to alligators to managing grazing for wildlife corridors and water quality. He also explains how his employees adapted to the technology and what ranchers should consider before adopting it.

If you’re curious about the future of ranching technology and how it ties into profitability and stewardship, this conversation is full of practical insights.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction with Shaye Wanner

01:18 – Why Jim Strickland bets on the beef industry

04:19 – Overview of Strickland Ranch and Blackbeard Ranch operations

09:31 – How Jim was introduced to virtual fencing technology

15:20 – Conservation and wildlife benefits of virtual fencing

21:55 – Managing hurricanes with Vence

28:05 – Protecting calves from alligators

33:12 – How employees adapted to the technology

38:58 – Challenges ranchers should know before starting

43:44 – Opportunities for public land grazing

44:24 – Questions to ask before investing in virtual fencing

47:18 – Closing thoughts and resources

Resources:

Blackbeard's Ranch | Strickland Ranch | Lost Girl Prairie Ranch | Florida Conservation Group | Vence Virtual Fence