In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Jim Boyer, Director of Research Operations at the University of Florida IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra, to explore one of North Central Florida’s most impactful research facilities.

Spanning 1,100 acres along the southern shores of Orange Lake, the Plant Science Research and Education Unit supports research on more than 140 agricultural commodities and works with nearly 100 UF faculty members annually. From blueberries and peanuts to turf grass, flowers, and even cold-tolerant coffee, the work happening in Citra helps farmers stay sustainable, profitable, and prepared for the future!

Jim shares how plant breeding plays a critical role in feeding a growing global population, how new technologies are improving water use and soil health, and how partnerships with Extension offices across Florida ensure research makes its way directly to farmers and homeowners.

Beyond research, the unit supports food security by donating harvested produce to local food banks and UF’s Field & Fork Pantry, ensuring its work benefits both local communities and producers across the state. The facility also hosts more than 100 tours each year and participates in community events like Farm City Week, offering the public a chance to see agricultural innovation firsthand.

Whether you’re curious about the future of food, plant breeding breakthroughs, or the science behind what grows in your own backyard, this episode offers an inside look at how Marion County and UF are helping shape agriculture for generations to come.

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🌱 Learn more about the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit at their website: wwww.plantscienceunit.ifas.ufl.edu

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🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida
Helping you Love Where You Live | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jason Reynolds, Executive Director, and Kim Van Der Walt, Director of Events & Sponsorships, from the Florida Horse Park—a premier 500-acre facility at the heart of Florida’s equestrian landscape.

Situated along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the Florida Horse Park is a year-round venue that serves all breeds and disciplines, while also offering space for community events, ag education, training, and more. From international competitions to grassroots fundraisers, the park reflects the values of both performance and public service.

Jason and Kim share how the Horse Park continues to grow as a community-focused venue, offering free access to most events and even emergency stabling during hurricanes. With cutting-edge facilities and a passion for accessibility, the Florida Horse Park is helping shape the future of equestrian sport and ag outreach in Marion County and beyond.

Whether you're a rider, a community supporter, or just curious about Ocala’s equine heritage, this episode offers a glimpse into one of the state’s most dynamic and welcoming venues!

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🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit the Event Calendar
🔗 Discover more about the Florida Horse Park | Visit the Website

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🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jacob Dorland, Campus Manager at the College of Central Florida’s Vintage Farm, to highlight the upcoming Marion County Farm City Week, taking place November 15–22, 2025.

Started in 1955 and observed nationwide the week before Thanksgiving, Farm City Week honors the essential partnerships between farmers, consumers, community leaders, and everyone in between.

Jacob shares how Marion County brings this tradition to life through a full week of community events focused on education, appreciation, and agriculture—with CF’s Vintage Farm playing a central role in connecting students and residents with the land and local food systems.

📅 Highlighted Events Include:

• 🐴 Vintage Farm Field Day
  Monday, Nov. 17 | 2–6 PM – Explore CF’s equine and ag programs with demos, networking, and a farm tour
  
  
• 🌱 Plant Science Research & Education Unit Open House
  Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 9 AM–12 PM – Farm tours, ag exhibits, and kids’ activities in Citra
  
  
• 🎖️ Ag Hall of Fame Banquet
  Thursday, Nov. 20 | 6 PM – Celebrate local ag leaders (sponsorships available)
  
  
• 📸 Photo Contest, Scavenger Hunt, Proclamation & More
  Follow Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook for full details.

Farm City Week isn’t just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to build understanding and gratitude for the people and systems that make our food and communities strong.

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🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook
🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod
🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com