Okanagan Ranch and Fence Reviews (2026): What BC Ranchers Need to Know

Posted by Reporting Analytics on

If you are farming or ranching in the North Okanagan—specifically near Armstrong, Vernon, or Kelowna—you may have noticed a name change recently. The company formerly known as Okanagan Fence Supplies has rebranded to Okanagan Ranch and Fence Supplies.

Because they are a local outfit with a limited digital footprint, it can be hard to find detailed information on their stock levels, pricing, or service capabilities online.

At FenceFast, we believe in helping Canadian producers make informed decisions. Since we serve hundreds of customers across British Columbia, we often get asked about local options. Here is a fair, honest assessment of what Okanagan Ranch and Fence offers, and a detailed look at how their local model compares to a national supply partner like FenceFast.

 

Who is Okanagan Ranch and Fence?

Based in Armstrong, BC (3980 Heighton Road), this business is owned and operated by Lee Fennell. They have been a staple in the local agricultural community for years.

In November 2025, they underwent a rebrand to emphasize their focus on "Ranch" solutions, moving beyond just standard fencing into technology like virtual fencing and GPS tracking. They are primarily known for being "boots on the ground"—a local dealer you can physically visit if you are in the immediate vicinity.

The Local Option: Strengths & Weaknesses

The Good: When to Shop Local

If you are located within a 50km radius of Armstrong, there are benefits to a strictly local operation:

  • Physical Proximity: If you need to pick up a specific part immediately and you happen to be in Armstrong, they are a convenient stop.

  • Installation Connections: They are often connected with local labor for physical fence installation, which can be helpful if you need someone to pound posts.

  • Community Presence: You will likely see them at local 4-H events or the Armstrong IPE.

The Challenges: Why BC Ranchers are Looking Elsewhere

While a small local dealer is great for a quick fix, modern ranching often requires a level of support and inventory that small shops struggle to provide.

  • Inventory Gaps: Local dealers can only stock so much. If you are planning a large rotational grazing project, you might find yourself waiting weeks for a special order.

  • The "Digital Silence": Trying to find pricing or order online can be frustrating. With no full e-commerce store, you often have to play phone tag to get a simple price check.

  • Limited Support Hours: If your energizer goes down on a Saturday evening, a local shop is likely closed until Monday.

The FenceFast Alternative: Why We Are BC's Top Choice

While we don't have a storefront on Heighton Road, FenceFast has become the go-to partner for serious ranchers across British Columbia. We aren't just a "store"; we are a logistics and technical support hub for Canadian agriculture.

Here is why producers from Prince George to the Kootenays are switching to FenceFast:

1. Massive Inventory, Ready to Ship

We don't rely on a small back room for stock. Our warehouse is packed with the complete catalogs of major brands like Gallagher, Speedrite, Datamars, and Tru-Test.

  • No "Special Order" Delays: Need 500 insulators? A remote solar water system? A high-joule energizer? We likely have it on the shelf.

  • Fast BC Shipping: We ship daily to British Columbia. For most customers, ordering from us is faster and cheaper than driving two hours to a local town and finding out the part isn't there.

2. Certified Technical Expertise (Not Just Sales)

Modern ranching is high-tech. Whether it's eShepherd Virtual Fencing or complex RFID/EID Tag Reading systems, you need more than a salesperson—you need a technician.

  • Certified Pasture Pros: We are one of the few Certified Pasture Pro dealers in Canada. We understand the software, the mapping, and the troubleshooting required for virtual fencing.

  • Real Support: When you call us, you speak to an expert who knows the gear, not a cashier. We can walk you through grounding issues, fault finding, and system design over the phone.

3. A Seamless Digital Experience

We know ranchers are busy. You don't have time to drive to town just to check a price.

  • 24/7 Ordering: Our full catalog is online with transparent pricing. Build your cart at 10 PM after chores are done.

  • Educational Resources: We don't just sell parts; we teach you how to use them. From our "Bear Fencing Guides" to our "Grounding Tutorials," our website is a library of knowledge available for free, anytime.

4. Direct-to-Farm Warranty Support

Buying locally can sometimes complicate warranties if the shop closes or changes hands. As a major national distributor, we handle warranty claims directly and efficiently. We stand behind every product we sell with the full backing of the manufacturers.

Head-to-Head: FenceFast vs. Okanagan Ranch & Fence

Feature

Okanagan Ranch & Fence

FenceFast Canada

Primary Location

Armstrong, BC (Local)

National Distribution (Ships to BC Daily)

Ordering Method

Phone / In-Person

Full E-Commerce / Online / Phone

Inventory Depth

Limited to shop capacity

Warehouse Scale (Thousands of SKUs)

Virtual Fencing

Dealer

Certified Pasture Pro & Technical Support

Support Availability

Business Hours

Online Guides + Professional Support Team

Best For

Hiring someone to install fence

Sourcing professional-grade gear & DIY systems

 

The Verdict: Which Partner is Right for You?

Stick with Okanagan Ranch and Fence if:

  • You are located immediately in Armstrong and need a quick, generic repair part today.

  • You are looking specifically for a contractor to perform physical labor (post pounding/wire stringing) for you.

Switch to FenceFast if:

  • You want access to the widest selection of professional grazing gear in Canada.

  • You value the convenience of having orders delivered directly to your farm gate.

  • You are implementing advanced tech like eShepherd and want a partner who can support the software, not just sell the hardware.

  • You want transparent, upfront pricing without having to call for a quote.

Ready to Upgrade Your Operation?

Don't let local inventory limits hold you back. Experience the difference of working with Canada's premier electric fencing experts. Browse Our Electric Fencing Catalog or Contact Our Technical Team today!



← Older Post Newer Post →



Leave a comment