10 Jan Citrus County Florida – The Place to Be
Citrus County: Gateway to Florida’s Nature Coast
Thinking about a move the Citrus County Florida? Within you will find many reasons why Citrus County is “The place to be”.
Citrus County is in the heart of Florida. About 90 miles northwest of Orlando and 75 miles north of Tampa and St. Petersburg/Clearwater. Our area provides a wonderful haven for those in search of a peaceful getaway or for those searching for adventure in Florida’s Nature Coast.
Springs of Citrus County Florida
Citrus County Florida is famous for being home to the endangered West Indian Manatee. Our area has seven rivers, some of which are spring-fed, draining into the Gulf of Mexico. Cool spring water provides a seemingly endless supply of fresh water from the Crystal, Homosassa and Chassahowitzka rivers.
West Indian Manatee
There are literally hundreds of fresh water springs, each maintaining a year-round temperature of 72 degrees. Above all, the 30 largest springs alone, pump 600 million gallons of water daily. Attracted to these warm waters, the West Indian Manatees migrate here in winter.
A Fisherman’s Paradise
Citrus County is widely considered as one of the Fishing Capitols of the world. Aptly named “The Nature Coast,” this area of Florida is teeming with aquatic wildlife. The crystal clear waters offer trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, snook, cobia, tarpon and a multitude of other species.
We all enjoy a fun day fishing and there is probably nothing as exciting as catching a tarpon on light tackle. Tarpon is king during the months of May and June. Fly anglers from all over the world come with hopes of becoming the new world record holder. The current international fly tackle records for tarpon for the 12 Lb, 16 lb and 20 lb class tippet were all caught off the Homosassa River.
Lifestyle of Citrus County Florida
Contributing to the high quality of life, Citrus County’s school systems are top ranking in the state.
However, great schools are not enough. Certainly, you also need good neighborhoods, and we have plenty. Along the western side of the county, you will find the communities of Crystal River, Homosassa and Chassahowtizka.
The central ridge of our county is the sand hill region. Here, you will find an abundance of long leaf pine and turkey oak. The communities of Pine Ridge, Black Diamond Ranch, Citrus Hills, Terra Vista and Citrus Springs. You will find many beautiful golf courses in this area. With more than a dozen public and private golf courses, you will find great golf in every direction.
The Great Outdoors
Along the eastern side of the county, you’ll find the 13 mile Tsala Apopka chain of lakes and the Withlacoochee River. Both of which have some of the very best large-mouth bass fishing you’ll find anywhere. Along the river and lakes and the upland pine forest, you will find the communities of Hernando, Inverness and Floral City. The Withlacoochee State Trail offers a 46-mile section of railroad track that has been paved for use by visitors on bicycles or foot. The even topography and natural surroundings make it particularly well-liked among cyclists.
Citrus County is a magnet for the outdoors man. The public owns more than one-third of the 400,000 plus acres in Citrus County. As a result, an extensive park system provides a large variety of activities for all ages. There are literally more than 50 local and state parks in this area of Florida’s Nature Coast.
Safety & Commerce in Citrus County
Also, Citrus County is one of the most desirable business community areas in Florida. Our Sheriff’s department has one of the lowest crime rates in the state.
A growing business community is the direct result of the business climate as well as the quality of life available. There are many partnerships available to help new business growth. Those programs include: the Economic Development Council , Workforce Connection , SCORE of Citrus , College of Central Florida and the Small Business Development Center. Furthermore, major employers of Citrus County include: the construction and real estate industries, school board, large medical community, Progress Energy complex and a large service industry sector.
Dining & Socializing in Citrus County
Now, let’s talk about dining in Citrus County! Dress up for a fine dinner at one of our many exquisite establishments. If you prefer to take it easy, throw on a pair of shorts and t-shirt and hang out at one of the waterfront restaurants. We have it all. From fresh seafood to steaks, you name it. There’s a multitude of local restaurants spread across the county serving food with flair.
Annual traditions included an array of community events such as the Stone Crab Jam, Manatee Festival and the Floral City Strawberry Festival. These signature events allow thousands of visitors each year to catch a glimpse into the culture of Citrus County.
For those of you who have time on your hands and want to give something back, there are many areas for volunteerism. The Nature Coast Volunteer Center recruits volunteers on behalf of over 100 organizations throughout Citrus County. Volunteers are “matched” with sites of common interests and skills. Finally, if I can interest you in a civic group, check out the six Citrus Rotary Clubs here.
I invite you to visit Citrus County and see for yourself.
Sincerely,
Edward Russell Johnston
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