Riverwood, Florida Joins Audubon International’s Sustainable Communities Program

PORT CHARLOTTE, FL – The private community of Riverwood, Florida has become the most recent community in Florida to join Audubon International’s Sustainable Communities Program.  

By joining and participating in the Sustainable Communities Program, Riverwood will undergo and complete three stages in the multi-year certification process. This process includes completing an assessment, defining a long-term community vision, choosing sustainability indicators as a mechanism for fostering action and measuring success, and implementing the plan. Once Riverwood has demonstrated progress on its chosen goals, it will be eligible for designation as a Certified Audubon Sustainable Community.

“We created this new Audubon volunteer committee with a goal to help direct our environmental efforts and create a long-term plan to preserve and enhance the environmental quality in Riverwood,” said Larry Lancette, chairman of the Community Association.

The Sustainable Communities Program serves as a framework to merge economic and social considerations with the protection and enhancement of a community’s environmental characteristics.  Audubon International serves as a catalyst for citizen-driven planning and community actions, and facilitates partnerships with governmental agencies, businesses, academic institutions, and other organizations that provide local support and assistance to reach the goals envisioned in the community.  Working in this way, Riverwood will take a big picture approach to community growth and environmental protection.

“Every community faces challenges, and over time, all communities undergo change.  At the same time, there are aspects of life and assets in each community that make it a great place to live,” said Sustainable Communities Program Manager, Joanna Nadeau. “The Sustainable Communities Program helps communities tackle those challenges and plan for change in a way that fosters a vibrant local economy while maintaining a healthy environment and high quality of life. This is the concept of sustainability, which Audubon International views as the foundation for quality communities of today and tomorrow. We want to harness the best of what Riverwood is today, and plan for the best of what Riverwood can be tomorrow.”

Riverwood, located just one hour from Fort Myers, FL, has a vibrant community of more than 2,600 property owners who determine the community’s priorities. They have determined a major priority is the ecological sensitivity of the area, which includes an eagle preserve and bird sanctuary. Located next to the “wild and scenic” Myakka River and including a private beach club, Riverwood’s 1,300 acres stands as a reminder of the natural Florida coastline. Its expansive, quiet beaches and pristine dunes along the Florida coast are home to a spectacular range of wildlife and a thriving ecosystem. In addition to the natural landscape, residents and guests can also enjoy a 4.5 Star golf course that is a member of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System, fitness and tennis facilities, Olympic swimming pool, dining, and many other world-class amenities.