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