OCALA, FL—Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association’s Tammy Gantt spoke to representatives of the Florida Planning and Zoning Association Central Florida Chapter (FPZA) and statewide board Friday, Jan. 24, focusing on the economic impact equine—specifically Thoroughbreds—have on the state and Marion County.

Gantt shared with the group data on land preservation, the county’s Farmland Preservation Area (FPA) and the $4.3 billion impact of equine jobs to the local and statewide economy.

One in five jobs and 22% of the GDP are equine related in Marion County, with Thoroughbreds making up a majority of that impact in both categories. 

Presided over by Emily Hanna, AICP, CPM, and past FPZA past chapter president Joe Martin, the presentation included discussion on growth, opportunities, and challenges faced by the industry. The presentation was followed by a walking tour of the World Equestrian Center by Rodney Gutierrez, WEC director of group sales, who showcased the intersection of equine events with world class facilities, and hospitality.

Return to the January 31 issue of Wire to Wire