Audubon International Certification
Osprey Point Golf Course is proud to hold the designation as an Audubon International Classic Sanctuary, which recognizes the course's dedication to environmental stewardship, from its development through operation today. In receiving the designation in July of 2011, Osprey Point became the first golf course in Florida, the second in the United States and just the fifth in the world to achieve Audubon International's highest honor for meeting or exceeding environmental requirements. In 2015, the facility became the first course in the United State to be re-certified for continuing its environmental efforts.
To achieve the designation, Palm Beach County developed Osprey Point Golf Course according to a set of guidelines and criteria designed to protect biodiviersity of plant and animal life, maintain water quality and provide for the long-term management of the environment. Water treatment drains that include infiltration sumps, bioswales and wetlands were installed throughout the course. Irrigated acreage was minimized allowing native habitat to be expanded, and a diverse palette of native landscpaing was installed. A new, more drought-tolerant turfgrass, Seashore Paspalum, was planted along with soil moisture sensors and a state-of-the-art irrigation system. Coquina cart paths were used, wherever pratical, to reduce impervious surfaces and minimize turfgrass acreage.
Furthermore, a full complement of environmental management practices has been utilized to ensure adherence to environmental standards. Some areas addressed are:
- Environmental planning
- Wildlife and habitat management
- Chemical use, reduction and safety
- Water conservation
- Water quality management
- Outreach and education
Chemical use, reduction and safety, environmental planning, outreach and education programs, water conservation, water quality management as well as wildlife and habitat management are just some of the activities we have undertaken to achieve and maintain our certification.
Birdhouses, butterfly gardens, and natural areas are some of the visible signs of designed wildlife habitats you will see throughout our golf course. These wildlife and habitat management areas are intended to attract and preserve wildlife.
Please join us in conserving our open spaces and maintaining wildlife habitats during your visit to our facility.
