Honoring the Myakka History and Land at TerraNova
The Estates at TerraNova is located in the Myakka region of Southwest Florida, a region known for vast cattle ranches, citrus groves, forests, rivers and streams. The region has a rich Native American history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years.
Myakka is home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, pine flat woods and prairies, making it a hotspot for biodiversity in Florida. The Myakka River, which flows through the region, is Florida's only designated Wild and Scenic River, attracting nature enthusiasts and paddlers from around the state.
1700s
Spanish explorers, including Juan Ponce de Leon and Hernando de Soto, likely passed through the Myakka area in the 16th century, leaving an early European footprint.
1800s
During the mid 1800s, settlers established cattle ranches in the Myakka region, contributing the Florida's cattle industry.
In the late 1800s, the Florida Land Boom attracted newcomers to Myakka, promoting agricultural development and growth.
1900s
Myakka River State Park, established in 1941, encompasses a significant portion of the Myakka region and preserves its natural beauty and wildlife.
2010s
During the development of the TerraNova Equestrian Center, no trees were cut down to accommodate the facility. In fact, the plans for the competition stabling were adjusted to ensure no trees would be harmed.
2010s
To aid in land maintenance and conservation, TerraNova created a small lake to capture rainwater and run-off. This the the system that is used for all the irrigation at TerraNova.
2020s
The Estates at TerraNova are spaced on a minimum of five acres up to 20 acres to help ensure that the land continues to feel expansive and not overdeveloped.
Always
Natural wildlife is welcome at TerraNova. The landscape design and construction layout were developed to maintain natural areas for wildlife to wander and migrate. It is not uncommon to see deer, alligators and other animals wandering the property, including the cross country course.
The Spell of the Myakka
There are fish and they are jumping and flaunting
And luring me on as they wish;
But it isn't the fish that I'm wanting
So much as just catching the fish.
It's the great, broad Myakka out yonder
With its palms where silence has lease;
It's the beauty that thrills me with wonder
It's the stillness that fills me with peace.
— Neal Wyatt Chapline 1914 —
