Developers honored for using Florida-friendly Landscaping Techniques

News Release

Two developers recently received statewide recognition for using Florida-friendly landscaping techniques in their communities.

The University of Floridas Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN), Builder/Developer program presented prestigious Community-Wide Florida-Friendly Landscaping Awards to Lee Wetherington Homes for the Willow Bend community in Sarasota County and King Ranch Manatee for the River Forest community in Manatee County. The awards were presented at Green Trends 2006, the Third Annual Florida Green Building Coalition Conference and Trade Show, held in Gainesville, May 24.

To receive the award, communities and home sites must promote environmentally responsible landscaping practices such as selecting plants appropriate for the site, irrigating efficiently and using responsible maintenance practices.

The event gives the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program, which receives funding from the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the opportunity to recognize eco-friendly development and encourage other builders and developers to follow Florida-friendly landscaping principles.

For more information about the FYN Builder/Developer Program, contact Angela Polo, FYN Builder/Developer Coordinator at 941-232-4536 or angelap@ufl.edu.