Horse Farms Forever and the Alachua Conservation Trust Announce Partnership to Protect Land in the Farmland Preservation Area

Horse Farms Forever and the Alachua Conservation Trust Announce Partnership to Protect Land in the Farmland Preservation Area

by | Oct 6, 2020 | News, Plan

by Busy Shires Byerly, October, 2020

Horse Farms Forever is pleased to announce a partnership with the Alachua Conservation Trust (ACT) to help protect land in Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area. This partnership will help further the mission of Horse Farms Forever (HFF) of preserving the character and culture that makes Ocala the Horse Capital of the World®.

ACT is a non-profit land trust working to protect the natural, historic, scenic and recreational resources in 16 counties across north central Florida. They protect land through purchase, donation, and conservation easements and have facilitated the conservation of over 54,000 acres of land since 1988.

This partnership is supported by a generous $20,000 grant from the Felburn Foundation to facilitate the preservation of agricultural lands located in Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area with conservation easements.

The Felburn Foundation’s generous support will allow HFF and ACT to expand our educational initiatives about land conservation options and work with willing landowners to protect land.

There are several land conservation options to help protect land, but conservation easements are the primary tool ACT uses for land conservation. Conservation easements preserve natural areas and farming practices and are tailored to meet a landowner’s desired future land use. The property is never open to the public and remains a private holding. Conservation easements can be sold by selling the development rights and may also qualify for powerful income, estate, and property tax incentives.

Most of all, conservation easements can provide peace of mind by protecting property in perpetuity regardless of who owns it in the future. Landowners are able to ensure that their legacy is passed on to the next generation.

To learn more about how to protect your farm through conservation easements, contact Tom Kay, Executive Director, Alachua Conservation Trust
7204 SE CR 234 Gainesville, FL 32641

www.alachuaconservationtrust.org

352.373.1078

About the Felburn Foundation

The Foundation was founded by Phil Felburn and is a charitable foundation that provides funding for nature libraries, museums, state parks, land conservation, springs protection, and environmental education.

Guy Marwick, who now serves as one of the Directors of The Felburn Foundation, was the original founder and Director of the Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center. The museum opened nearly 30 years ago in 1991 and is a partnership with Marion County Public Schools.

Marwick is a visionary and a dreamer. Over 30 years ago, he was a science teacher at Osceola Middle School in Marion County. He saw the need to expand the activities and learning programs in his classroom. His dream was to create an outdoor learning center for children.

“One thing about science, is that the hands-on experience makes kids want to learn,” he said as part of the 20th anniversary event of the museum.

Marwick was able to make his dream come to fruition with a fellowship from the Christa McAuliffe Fellowship Program. With this transformative donation, additional donors also supported the development of the museum and education center.

Each school day, students are bused to the museum for classes. Fourth-grade students visit as part of their Florida history requirement. Students in 4th and 5th grades visit for science instruction.

The museum is closed during the week to the public as Marion County school children attend classes. On weekends, the museum is staffed by park service personnel and volunteers and is open to the public.

Over 20,000 people visit the museum each year, 10,000 of whom are children on field trips.

The museum is located within Silver Springs State Park.

CONSERVATION SUMMIT

Preserving Open Spaces & Beautiful Places

November 19 at Golden Ocala

 Learn More!

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

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Behind the Golden Gates

Behind the Golden Gates

by | Aug 24, 2020 | News

Golden Ocala/WEC Renew as Founding Members

The World Equestrian Center and Golden Ocala are major enhancements to our equine-powered economy and lifestyle here in Marion County. The Roberts Family, owners of both, were one of our first Founding Members, and recently demonstrated their commitment Horse Farms Forever’s mission by renewing again at the Founder Level. Please join us in thanking the Roberts Family, Golden Ocala, & World Equestrian Center for caring about preserving our open spaces and beautiful places for future generations.

Let’s shine the spotlight on the contributions that these monumental facilities will make to the Horse Capital of the World® as the community anticipates the opening of the World Equestrian Center in 2021.

Quality. Class. Distinction.

The World Equestrian Center (WEC) is the largest equestrian complex in North America, encompassing over 4,000 pristine acres in the heart of horse country. Within those 4,000 acres, The WEC currently inhabits 378 acres, with 300 more acres in reserve. It is a world-class multi-indoor and -outdoor arena facility with state-of the-art amenities that can accommodate numerous different disciplines within the Equine Industry.

This state-of-the-art Ocala Equestrian Center is designed to offer the ultimate competition experience for both horse and rider. As a professionally operated, family-owned enterprise, the WEC illustrates the passion and commitment to equestrian sports in the United States. It is a true destination. The event grounds will feature a luxurious six-story, 5-star hotel, located at the heart of the equestrian resort. The brand-new hotel will feature 248 extra large suites, some equipped with balconies where guests can take in world-class equestrian events in luxury and comfort. The hotel will also feature retail space, where guests and visitors will find a high-end boutique experience just minutes from the competition rings and barns. On-site dining options will include several sit-down restaurants, including a fine dining restaurant with seating for 500 guests.

Attention to Detail

World Equestrian Center and World Equestrian Estates will feature approximately 1.5 million square feet of riding space. The grounds will be manicured with mature trees and hundreds of thousands of flowers. On-site greenhouses will keep the flowers blooming year round. Visitors and competitors alike will find a park-like atmosphere around the grand prix area and throughout the grounds. Paver sidewalks and a tree-lined entrance enhance the park-like feel at World Equestrian Center.

State-of-the-Art Amenities 

World Equestrian Center Ocala is set to be the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., with 4,000 acres that consist of amenities that take this venue from just another arena to a prime destination. And the best part, those amenities are constantly expanding:

  • Six-story, five-star, pet-friendly hotel with 248 extra-large suites; a spa, salon and fitness center; indoor and outdoor bars, fire pits and fireplaces; and 18,000-square-feet of attached retail space
  • Three-acre grand outdoor stadium
  • Riding trails spanning scenic areas and schooling areas
  • Multiple dining options, including a 500-seat restaurant and a 10-seat private dining room, both in the on-site hotel, as well as four field concessions and on-site catering
  • Exclusive membership opportunities via Golden Ocala
  • On-site chapel featuring nondenominational services for 100 people at a time
  • RV park with 278 camper spaces, water and power hook-ups, and WiFi
  • 2,100 permanent stalls
  • Four indoor, climate-controlled arenas that each seat 1,500 people — including 300 VIP, ringside seats with top-notch cuisine
  • 21 outdoor arenas with all-weather footing and grass
  • Two grand outdoor arenas with stadium seating
  • One grand arena for over 8,000 spectators
  • Second grand arena that accommodates over 3,000 spectators
  • 40,000-square-foot veterinary clinic with specialty vets and dog groomers
  • Convenience store
  • Coin-operated laundry facility

We hope to see you there at the opening events in 2021! You can stay informed by visiting the World Equestrian Center website and visiting them on all the social media channels.

Sources:

  1. https://worldequestriancenter.com/locations/ocala-florida/
  2. https://www.goldenocala.com/blog/equestrian/world-equestrian-center-ocala-update/

The Fun Starts in January

Get ready for 12 weeks of World Equestrian Center hunter/jumper horse shows that run from January 5 through March 28:

  • $10,000 Non-Pro Hunter Derby 2’6
  • $10,000 3’ Hunter Derby OPEN
  • $10,000 3’ Hunter Derby NON PRO
  • $30,000 World Equestrian Center Hunter Derby
  • $10,000 World Equestrian Center Pony Hunter Derby
  • $25,000 World Equestrian Center Welcome Stake – Regional Standard
  • $75,000 World Equestrian Center Grand Prix – American Standard
  • $25,000 Future Prix

Prize money for these weekly events is expected to be over $400,000 per week, and overall circuit money and prizes are slated to be nearly $5 million. More than 100 divisions will be offered, from opportunity classes to Grand Prix. For a proposed prize list, visit HorseShowing.com.

Multiple dining options, from field concessions to a 500 seat restaurant.

2100 permanent stalls, all 12×12 or 12×15. 17 of the 23 barns are in climate-controlled spaces.

Miles of groomed bridle paths. Dressage and Jumping lessons offered on site for residents of Golden Ocala and the future World Equestrian Estates.

So much to do, see and experience. Something for everyone.

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now
Renewing Founders Explain The Relevance of HFF in These Times

Renewing Founders Explain The Relevance of HFF in These Times

by | Jul 10, 2020 | News

In Horse Farms Forever’s short history, we have been faithfully supported by a core group of Founders. This week, the following Founders chose once again to affirm their commitment to our mission. Here, they share why, in these times, the need for a watchdog organization is even more relevant than it was during the toll road threat of 2018.

Scroll through to read their words…and join us in thanking them!

Tom & Amy Grabe, Canine Chronicle

Founders 2018-2020

“Over the past 20+ years, we have seen Ocala and Marion County change significantly. The city has grown and development in the county has grown along with it. During this time, the Farm Preservation Area has served as a magnet that drew many of our new residents to Marion County. We must protect this unique blend of open spaces and beautiful places for generations to come. It defines Marion County as the Horse Capital of the World.”

Rob Desino, Ocala Horse Properties

Founder 2018-2020

“Thank goodness that Horse Farms Forever is there for us advocating for the protection of horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area in Ocala. Turning the Farmland Preservation Area into another mass of concrete strip plazas is not necessary and certainly not desirable.”

 

Paul & Ann Kaplan, Southwind Farm

Founders 2018-2020

“I am so grateful Horse Farms Forever has created a firewall between urban sprawl and the preservation of horse farms in Marion County.
Without horse farms, there are no horses!”

Charlotte Weber, Live Oak Stud

Founder 2018-2020

“The creation of the Farmland Preservation Area was instrumental in preserving our equine industry. Horse Farms Forever is instrumental in this endeavor and I greatly support their vision, community involvement, and goals.”

Mary Jane Hunt, Horsefeathers!

Founder 2018-2020

“Developers are knocking loudly on the doors of government seeking exemptions to violate the Farmland Preservation Area. We have seen two just in the first half of 2020. The developers want to pave it; we want to save it! “

Bernard Little, Misty Lane Cattle Company

Founder 2018-2020

“There’s an old saying, “If you don’t have a seat at the table, then you are on the menu.”  For far too long, the Farmland Preservation Area has been on the menu. Horse Farms Forever now has a seat at the table advocating for the protection of horse farms and the Farmland Protection Area.  Our strength comes through our members.  Please join!”

Kurt & Janet Geisselman, Naked Horse Farm

Charter Members 2019-2020

“We are very disturbed and concerned by the continuing pressure to develop this area. We believe the FPA boundary should be etched in stone. Once it is erased, it can never be replaced.”

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now

Behind the Gate: Team Cone

by | Jul 1, 2020 | News, Uncategorized, Videos

Our First Non-Equine Founder Explains Why Supporting HFF is Good Business

When you crack open a cold one at your 4th of July barbeque, offer a toast to Cone Distributing. They employ 320 in Ocala and serve 22 counties in Florida with a vast array of beer and non-alcoholic beverages.

In this edition of Behind the Gate, Horse Capital TV visits with president/CEO Doug Cone, who makes a convincing case for Horse Farms Forever’s role in managing growth and protecting Marion County’s global brand.

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
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Florida Bred Horses Make Strong Showing in the Belmont!

Florida Bred Horses Make Strong Showing in the Belmont!

by | Jun 22, 2020 | Events, News

Tap It to Win bred by Live Oak Plantation and trained by Casse Racing. Photo Ryan Thompson.

Upside Down Crown.

With the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes moved to Sept. 5 and Oct. 3, the Belmont took an unusual position as the first jewel in the Triple Crown this year. Last Saturday’s race, held at New York’s Belmont Park, was shortened to 1-1/8 miles and run with limited audience attendance.

The 6-5 favorite, Tiz The Law, won by over 3 lengths. The New York bred was started in Ocala at New Episode Training Center by Tony Everard.

The second place finisher, Dr. Post, was purchased by Ocala’s Crupi’s New Castle Farm as a yearling for $400,000. He is trained by Todd Pletcher.

Tap It to Win started well, led early, and ultimately finished fifth. He is bred by Charlotte Weber’s Live Oak Plantation – born and raised in Ocala. His trainer, Mark Casse, won last year’s Belmont with Sir Winston. He is based in Ocala. A member of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame, Casse was named for induction into the American National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame earlier this year. He joins Lucien Laurin and Roger Attfield as the only trainers in both racing shrines.

Finishing sixth, Sole Volante was sold at the 2019 Ocala Breeders’ Sales April 2-year-old auction. He has earned nearly $300,000.

The ninth place finisher was Fore Left, who went through the 2019 OBS March sale but did not sell. He was consigned by Ocala’s Wavertree Stables. The son of Unbridle’s Song has more than $355,000 in earnings.

Look for more Florida-breds in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness.

July 14-16 is the date for the next Ocala Breeder’s Sales July 2 Year Olds & Horses of Racing Age Sale.

The racing season has officially begun. Don’t miss the sale!

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members’ interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join or Donate Now