Audubon International Certified Gold Signature Sanctuary

From initial land planning to build-out, Old Palm was developed in accordance with Audubon International’s Principles of Sustainability, which include: Wildlife Habitat Conservation, Commitment to Water Quality and Water Conservation, Conserving and Maximizing Native Plants, Commitment to Green Building and Dedication to Sustainable Education and Outreach.

More than 50 acres of the approximately 650-acre community have been set aside as preserve, including a vegetative preserve on the north end of the community with dedicated tortoise fencing to provide a contiguous wildlife corridor. Approximately 75% of the landscaped common areas are comprised of native plantings, which are more drought tolerant and require less water. Specially engineered phytozones in the community lakes, along with littoral plantings, allow for natural filtration areas.

These green practices extend to the championship Raymond Floyd-designed golf course. Seashore paspalum turf grass, a state-of-the-art, revolutionary hybrid grass, was installed to provide a vibrant green hue that is indicative of a well cared for course. The choice of this turf grass was pioneering and a perfect fit for the course’s innovative design. The paspalum grass, which is designed to fare better in heat, cold and shade as well as varied soil conditions, can be watered with fresh, brackish or salt water.