PLACE-MAKING THAT PROMOTES CONSERVATION
As Northwest Florida's largest private landowner, JOE recognizes the importance of protecting the best of Northwest Florida – after all, that's why people choose to visit and live there. JOE concentrates on preserving the region's natural beauty and helping homeowners in JOE communities protect and enjoy the area.
Discovery Time. In planning a new community, JOE allows for "discovery time," spending extensive days and weeks on-site with naturalists and landscape architects to move development away from special features and reduce density where preservation is warranted. Communities such as WaterColor, WaterSound and WindMark Beach provide for low-density residential development utilizing clustering techniques to minimize the impact on natural resources. These special places help us reconnect to nature and improve our quality of life.
On-site Development Practices. JOE protects an enormous amount of land within its developed communities. Often 40 percent or more of the total acreage is preserved as open or green space. As part of its development program, JOE relocates state-listed or rare plant species, uses indigenous plants and vegetation for landscaping, and puts an emphasis on xeriscaping, which reduces the demand placed on the irrigation supply.
Protective Covenants. JOE uses protective legal covenants to ensure the permanent protection of natural systems in and around JOE developments. These legal agreements set community standards for open space, building structures and landscaping. For example, at WindMark Beach, covenants require the community to follow the Institute of Lighting Engineers' Guidance Notes for Reduction of Light Pollution.
Environmental Amenities. JOE communities include nature trails, kayaks and bird observation facilities. At RiverCamps, there are eight miles of trails and boardwalks. At SouthWood, 40 percent of the community is green space, including four and a half miles of nature trails and a community lake. WaterColor provides kayaks for residential and guest use and two miles of nature trails with interpretive signage.