From the Star Banner: Planning and Zoning Board Advises Reining in Sprawling World Equestrian Center
Developers of the massive World Equestrian Center want to make it even bigger by adding another 1,000-plus acres to the already approved 3,200-acre footprint of the project in northwest Marion County.
Live Oak Stud Urges the County To Stand By the Farmland Preservation Area
In her letter to the Marion County Commissioners, Live Oak Stud owner Charlotte Weber to advocate for protection of the Farmland Preservation Area.
County Zoning Commissioners Hear the Public But Vote in Favor of GO-WEC
At last evenings Marion County Zoning and Planning Commission meeting, Horse Farms Forever’s Busy Shires-Byerly presented our clear position opposing Golden Ocala/World Equestrian Center’s plans specific to Area 1 and Area 8 on their plan map. In these two areas, they are asking the County to remove 118 acres of land from the Farmland Protection Area and to rezone 157 acres as “WEC Rural” which will allow up to 50% commercial development.
Ocala/Marion County CEP Goes on Record Supporting Farmland Preservation Area
A robust and protected Farmland Preservation Area is good business. We thank the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership for standing with us. The Farmland Preservation Area should be etched in stone, not subject to every stroke of a developer’s pencil and eraser. Once it’s erased, it can never be replaced.
Horse Farms Forever to Speak at Zoning and Planning Meeting…and how you can, too
Today’s Zoning and Planning meeting at 5:30pm is the first of two public hearings where the community can voice their concerns about the Golden Ocala-World Equestrian development plans. Horse Farms Forever’s Director of Conservation Strategies, Busy Shires Byerly, will be speaking on behalf of our members. Here is a transcript of her remarks:
Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association Stands with Horse Farms Forever
We thank the FTBOA for publicly expressing their support for our mission to protect the Farmland Preservation Area from the latest development threat.
World Equestrian Center Plan Threatens Farmland Preservation Area
Horse Farms Forever Urges Golden Ocala-World Equestrian Center To Reconsider Land Use Amendments in the Farmland Preservation Area. Unfortunately, Golden Ocala/World Equestrian Center (GO-WEC) has requested two land use amendments to change the Comprehensive Plan that threaten the integrity of the Farmland Preservation Area (FPA), which is core to our mission.
In Praise of Pink – Northern Turnpike Connector Report for April
Hot pink areas will not be impacted by the proposed Northern Turnpike Corridor. Our FPA ranks right up there with springs, military bases, tribal lands and national register sites.
Protecting Farms is More Important than Ever
In this special to the Ocala Star Banner, Busy Shires Byerly, Horse Farms Forever’s Director of Conservation Strategy, makes the case for access to fresh food and the value of agricultural land. In today’s trying times, our local farmers need our support. Byerly points the way to programs that provide tangible short-term relief to our farmers. She also discusses the land-saving ethic and longer-term goals that will ensure productive farmland for future generations.
Ocala Stud – Learn About the Oldest Active Thoroughbred Operation in Florida
Perhaps you’ve seen the Ocala Stud painted sign? Maybe you’ve posed for a picture next to it?
Learn all about the oldest active Thoroughbred operation in Florida in the latest issue of Ocala Style Magazine.
Help Protect Our Farms - Join Today!
Together, we can help preserve the character and culture that horses, horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area make unique to Marion County.
Join the herd. Every voice matters.
Be the first to know!
When the farmland watchdogs sound the alarm, you’ll hear first.