Citrus County, County in Florida, United States
Citrus County is an administrative unit on Florida's central west coast that includes both land and water areas. The territory sits at roughly 21 meters (69 feet) above sea level and covers an area of about 2,000 square kilometers (773 square miles).
The administrative unit was formed in 1887 from parts of Hernando County during a time when citrus groves dominated local farming. A harsh winter in 1894–1895 destroyed nearly all plantations, leaving only one large operation called Bellamy Grove standing.
The name comes from the citrus plantations that once shaped the landscape and remain visible in the surrounding area today. The waterways of the region draw visitors who come to observe manatees in their natural habitat.
The library system maintains several branches across the region and has provided residents with books and services since its founding in 1987. Most public facilities are located in the larger towns along the coast and main roads.
The first newspaper in the region was called Phosphate Times and reflected the importance of phosphate mining to the local economy. Today the waterways are known for hosting manatees that gather in the warm waters during winter months.
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