Winding Oaks Farm has over a thousand acres of sprawling land, and plans are about to be made to convert 70 percent of the property to residential, commercial and transportation uses. The remaining 300 acres would continue to be used as a horse training facility.
The stretch of land in the middle of the property that includes barns, stables and training tracks among other things, would remain as is. Ideally, the frontage on State Road 200 will be designated for commercial development and sections to the east would be residential.
The shift in land usage for the farm is necessary, as it is becoming too expensive to maintain 1,000 acres solely as farm land.
While Marion County has many horse farms, Winding Oaks Farm is particularly special due to its size, as well as its breeding and racing accolades. It is also in a very busy part of Ocala, which reminds those who drive past they live in the Horse Capital of the World.
There are mixed sentiments regarding the development and conversion of such a property. Some people may object to the development on formal or historic grounds. Some people may just miss the beauty of the farm. Some may feel like the farm owners are selling out. However, the pristine farm is surrounded by modern business and life, and it is time for progress for the farm in order to adapt to the life and needs of those who surround it.
The farm’s development will take time, with plenty of work to do by realtors, developers, county planners and more.
And while this farm is not currently for sale, plenty of other horse farms all over Marion County are available for purchase. You can view any of the 258 horse properties currently on the market here.
Or, for more information on the development of Winding Oaks Farm, check out the article at ocala.com.
