Equestrian Center Sues Residents for Defamatory Social Media Posts

As of October 5th, 2025, a Florida equestrian center called TerraNova is engaged in a legal battle with two Myakka City residents, Lindsey Leigh and her husband Edward Engquist. TerraNova, the owner of which is Steve Herrig, has filed a lawsuit accusing the couple of defaming the center's plans for a new housing development in the rural Myakka area.

Leigh has emerged as a vocal advocate for many Myakka residents who are concerned about the potential impact of development on the Myakka River and the area's rural lifestyle. She has made social media posts criticizing TerraNova's plans, including claims that the development would "build on wetlands," "mound up swamp land," and "flood your neighbors."

However, TerraNova has refuted these allegations, stating that any construction impacting wetlands would require permits from regulatory agencies. The company also says it has reached out to Leigh to discuss its environmental initiatives, but she has refused to retract her statements.

The lawsuit, filed on September 22nd, seeks at least $50,000 in damages from Leigh and Engquist. Herrig, the owner of TerraNova, says he is taking legal action to "get the truth out" and counter the "false" claims made about his company's plans. But Leigh sees the lawsuit as an attempt to "intimidate" her and silence her community advocacy.

Despite the legal threat, Leigh remains undeterred, comparing the lawsuit to a "gag order." She has launched a successful fundraising campaign to cover the legal costs, receiving an outpouring of support from her Myakka neighbors. Leigh is determined to continue fighting the development, stating that "the fight is for the community."