Longboat Key Club & Resort, recognized as a leader in the Hospitality Industry for its Green and Sustainable initiatives, has taken their commitment one step further with the implementation of Green Golf Course Technology as standard procedures for their Golf Course Maintenance programs.
Even before "green" became the industry buzzword it is today, Longboat Key Club & Resort was on its way to identifying sustainable and energy saving initiatives that have been widely implemented throughout the resort. When the focus turned to refurbishing their golf courses, they relied on the expertise of John Reilly, Director of Agronomy, to find a system that would accomplish the goal of rejuvenating their courses but also one that would adhere to the Resort's strong commitment to environmental conservancy and sustainable initiatives.
Over the course of the past two years, and in difficult growing conditions due to heat and near drought conditions, Reilly has been able to turn an agronomically challenging course into an oasis of emerald green through the use of natural fertilizers and organic processes. The dry fertilizers that are used consist of Water Soluble Nitrogen, sprayed applications consist of filtered organic mixtures and lake and water areas are treated with biodegradable applications only. Gone are the days of mass applications of synthetic pest controls on the Resort's two courses.
Since the use of synthetic fertilizers has ceased, there has been a noticeable increase in the populations of blue crabs and seabirds as well as other Island inhabitants. The runoff from the sprinklers and hydrating systems is filtered through natural compounds, creating a healthier environment for everyone, especially the golfers who frequent the course three, four and sometimes five times per week.
In addition to the "green" initiatives for Golf Course Maintenance, the courses also use biodegradable tees, energy efficient golf carts, biodegradable service ware and recycled water at all rewash stations.
Golf at Longboat Key Club & Resort
Offering 45 holes of golf on two spectacular, PGA-approved courses, Islandside and Harbourside, both courses offer driving ranges; clubhouses with indoor/outdoor dining and beverage service, full service pro shops featuring an impressive collection of name-brand golf apparel and equipment. Locker rooms include a lounge area, showers, televisions, towel service and shoe cleaning. Bag and club storage is complimentary for full time members and if you are visiting from out-of-town, Callaway golf club rentals are available at both courses. Group and individual instruction by a select staff of professionals as well as custom club fittings and repair services are also available.
About Longboat Key Club & Resort
Longboat Key Club and Resort is Sarasota's premier AAA Four-Diamond beachfront resort and private club renowned for its distinctive guest service and unparalleled amenities. It additionally boasts meeting space to suit groups ranging from 10 to 150. Easily accessible from two international airports, the resorts on-site amenities include: championship golf; 25 Har-Tru tennis courts; a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre; Island House Spa offering over 50 services; six unique restaurants; a 291 slip deep-water marina; and a private white sand beach. Located at 220 Sands Pointe Road, Longboat Key, Florida, reservations can be made by calling (941) 383-8821, (800) 237-8821 or by contacting us online at www.longboatkeyclub.com.
