The Land Development Regulation Commission (LDRC) is the commission that has the most impact on how Marion County grows. The LDRC makes recommendations in regards to the adoption and amendment of the Land Development Code and the Zoning Code.

The land, soil and water are the foundation of our decidedly horsey culture. But Marion County is more than a haven for horses. It is a strong identity. It is a thriving industry. And these things are built by people and their organizations.

If you come from another place, you’ve been an outsider as an equestrian. You may have watched open space, trails and facilities disappear in the face of development. Here, equine interests are a third of the economy. People live here because of the horses, not in spite of them. And this means that conservation is good business.

Horse Farms Forever is honored to present the Acorn Conservation Award to Guy Marwick, Founder of the Silver River Museum and Director of The Felburn Foundation. The Award will be presented at the Springs Forever! Conservation Summit to be held on Thursday, November 14 from 5 to 7 PM at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Arena.

Horse Farms Forever is immensely grateful for the unwavering support and commitment of our 2024 Conservation Summit Sponsors. We continue to be delighted by the enthusiasm shown by the businesses and individuals of Marion County for our open spaces and beautiful places. Brook Ledge Horse Transportation is once again leading the herd as our Title Sponsor for the fifth year in a row. And now Advent Health Ocala has stepped forward as Presenting Sponsor, joining Brook Ledge at the head of the herd. Advent Health has been a faithful supporter of our mission and our Summit for many years. We are always inspired and encouraged when we meet with them. They understand the vital link between community health and the environment. With their help, we are building a spirit of conservation in Marion County. Year after year, the awareness and appreciation for our natural resources and sense of place grows, and so does the Summit!

Horse Farms Forever, Inc.® is pleased to announce Mark Emery, an award-winning filmmaker, musician, and photographer for National Geographic, the Smithsonian Network, BBC, and PBS as our Keynote Speaker at the 2024 Conservation Summit to be held on Thursday, November 14 at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Arena.