Welcome to Blackbeard’s Ranch

Blackbeard’s Ranch was purchased from the General Mason Estate and is one of last pristine large cattle ranches east of Sarasota. The goal for this old Florida property, in additional to the cattle ranch, is to preserve and protect wildlife, conduct research studies on coyotes, water and many species of birds. The 5900-acre ranch borders the Myakka State Park and has numerous species of birds and rookeries onsite. Blackbeard’s Ranch is enrolled in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Best Management Program (BMP). Agricultural BMPs are practical, cost-effective actions that agricultural producers can take to reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste, and other pollutants entering our water resources, and to conserve water supply.

BMPs are designed to benefit water quality and water conservation while maintaining or even enhancing agricultural production.