Every effort to protect our agricultural lands and open spaces begins with people who care about the future of their community. At Horse Farms Forever®, we know that lasting conservation depends on strong local partnerships and a collective dedication to preserving what makes Marion County special.

We are pleased to celebrate the Bronze Level Sponsors of the 2026 Conservation Summit! Through their support, these businesses, organizations, and individuals are helping advance conversations about the importance of protecting our farms, ranches, and natural landscapes.

This year, we welcome Carlton Ward Jr., Emmy Award–winning filmmaker, National Geographic Explorer, and founder of the Florida Wildlife Corridor project and Wildpath, as he shares the story of the 2026 Great Florida Cattle Drive. His presentation will explore how Florida’s cowboy traditions and working lands are closely connected to the future of wildlife conservation.

Joining Carlton Ward Jr. is newly announced speaker Wilton Simpson, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture. A fifth-generation Floridian and lifelong farmer, Commissioner Simpson has spent more than four decades owning and managing a large-scale egg-laying operation. His agricultural background brings an additional perspective to this year’s discussion about the future of Florida’s farms, ranches, and working lands.

The Summit serves as an important reminder that protecting Florida’s agricultural heritage is a responsibility we all share.