2025 was a defining year for Horse Farms Forever. Not because the work got easier, but because the community showed up again and again to protect what makes Marion County extraordinary.
From policy advocacy to packed events and critical fundraising efforts, this year proved that preservation is powered by people.
Advocacy at the Heart of Our Mission
Throughout 2025, Horse Farms Forever remained deeply engaged in monitoring development proposals, zoning changes, and infrastructure impacts that threaten the Farmland Preservation Area. We continued to serve as a voice for responsible growth by:
- Tracking and responding to land-use proposals impacting farmland
- Attending hundreds of hours of county meetings
- Providing clear, factual education to the public
- Encouraging civic engagement and community action
Education & Signature Events
Conservation Summit 2025
Our sixth annual Conservation Summit was a standout moment of the year, welcoming a sold-out audience and keynote speaker Dr. Temple Grandin, who delivered a powerful and enlightening presentation on How Horses Think. The evening reinforced the deep connection between animal welfare, land stewardship, and thoughtful conservation.
Spring Speaker Series & Community Conversations
From agricultural leadership discussions to Behind the Gate events, 2025 offered multiple opportunities for learning, dialogue, and connection around preservation, rural heritage, and the future of Marion County with keynote speaker, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson.
Behind the Gate at Chi University
Horse Farms Forever’s Behind the Gate event at the Chi University on April 2nd was a memorable and educational evening to showcase the world-renowned veterinary school. Over 90 VIP members and community leaders joined us for an exclusive, invitation-only behind-the-scenes look at one of our Founder Members. This year, we were honored to showcase the incredible Chi University.
Honoring Conservation Leadership
At the Conservation Summit, we proudly presented the Acorn Conservation Award to the Drake Family in recognition of their extraordinary stewardship of thousands of acres of land. Their commitment to preservation embodies the values Horse Farms Forever exists to protect.
The Drake family was honored with the Acorn Conservation Award. L to R: HFF Director of Conservation, Busy Shires; George MacKay Drake, Jr., Trusten Holland Drake, Laura Drake McDonald, Bob Drake, Ann Louise Drake, and HFF President Bernie Little.
Fundraising That Fueled Our Mission
Fundraising in 2025 directly supported Horse Farms Forever’s advocacy, education, and community outreach efforts.
Farmland Preservation Month (April)
April marked Farmland Preservation Month, a cornerstone fundraising and awareness campaign highlighting why protecting open space matters now more than ever. Through storytelling, community outreach, and donor support, this campaign reinforced the urgency of safeguarding the Farmland Preservation Area.
Founder & Member Support
Throughout the year, new and returning Founders and Members stepped forward with meaningful contributions, forming the backbone of Horse Farms Forever’s ongoing work.
Give4Marion
Our participation in Give4Marion demonstrated the power of collective giving, enabling supporters to directly invest in farmland protection and public education.
Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday brought together donors who believe in preserving open land, equestrian heritage, and the rural character of Marion County. Every gift strengthened our ability to advocate year-round.
A Community Effort
Horse Farms Forever’s impact in 2025 was made possible by:
- Dedicated sponsors and partners
- Founders, donors, and members
- Volunteers and advocates
- A community that values land, horses, and heritage
Every action, every donation, and every voice mattered.
Looking Ahead
The work of farmland preservation doesn’t pause when the year ends. Development pressure continues, and so does the need for strong, informed advocacy.
Your support directly fuels our ability to protect the Farmland Preservation Area, educate the community, and advocate for responsible growth.
Whether through a donation, membership, sponsorship, or simply sharing our message, you play a role in preserving the land that defines Marion County.
Together, we are protecting more than land.
We are preserving a way of life.
