|
The 2000
census said that Ridge Manor had a population of a little over 5000. It is mostly an
agricultural community but with an average January temperature of 60 is lent to
recreational activities as well. Hunting, fishing, camping, paddling, birding, and hiking
are just a few of the many recreational opportunities enjoyed by residents and visitors
alike. We are fortunate to be near the home for much of the Withlacoochee
Trail, which covers 40+ miles. It is for walking and for "unmotorized"
vehicles. The trail is the site of a former railroad track, now blacktopped for ease
of travel, and a perfect place to work off those extra pounds while enjoying some
beautiful scenes. If you happen to find yourself there at sunrise or sunset, you
will be awed by the beauty of the sky! The Whispering Oaks golf course appeals to golfers from
near and far as do a couple of others. One advertises "18 holes + cart for
$10". Even on social security, you can afford at least 18 holes a month.
Hundreds of acres are in farming
which produces beef, dairy cattle and the growing of their needs as well as citrus.
Horse farms are beginning to dot the rolling land. Limestone and phosphate
mining, forest resources, and construction flourish and we even have a Wal-Mart distribution warehouse.
Like other communities, Ridge Manor is a bedroom community for the neighboring towns
of Dade City, Brooksville and even Tampa. We are well connected to the rest of the
state and Hernando County by Interstate 75, US 301, US 41 and US 98. Sandhill Cranes are everywhere!
Ridge Manor is unique in that it is
near the boundary lines of three counties; Pasco, Sumter,and of course, Hernando.
Other Florida cities lying within an hour's drive of the community are
Lakeland, Ocala, and Orlando. The County is served by the local Hernando County
Airport and Tampa International Airport, 45 miles to the south.Disney World is 50 miles to
the southeast which is 90 minutes away. The average elevation here is 175 feet above
sea level.
Historically, lumber, citrus and
the railroad played a big part in the growth and development of this part of Hernando and
especially north Pasco County.
|
|
