Hilton Head PSD has received certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), an Audubon International program designed to help landowners preserve and enhance the environmental quality of their property. The plan was developed by Pete Nardi, General Manager, who is also recognized for his effort to plan for environmental stewardship.
“The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program gives people an opportunity to do something good for the environment right where they live, work, and recreate” explained Christine Kane, CEO for Audubon International. “We welcome Hilton Head Public Service District’s commitment to managing the property in an environmentally-sensitive manner.”
By joining and participating in the ACSP, Hilton Head PSD will be involved in projects that enhance habitat for wildlife and preserve natural resources for the benefit of the local community. The Hilton Head PSD annually recycles more than 1 billion gallons of wastewater into beneficial recycled water. It then plays a vital role in the island’s economy and ecology by providing irrigation water for 11 golf courses – thereby conserving precious drinking water.
“The PSD is a leading local steward of our precious water resources. Our water supply and distribution program puts us at the forefront of protecting both public health and our water sources,” said Nardi. “Our recycled water program creates beneficial reuse of highly-treated wastewater and plays a vital role in protecting our delicate environment on the island. The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program gives the PSD an opportunity to tell our environmental stewardship story and also lets us use our facility as an example of workable ways to do the right thing for the environment.”
Other PSD projects include: planting a pollinator garden, establishing “no-mow” zones, converting to LED lighting, and educating residents about residential landscape maintenance.
“The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program benefits both people and wildlife,” said Kane. “It’s a great way for businesses and environmental organizations to work together to become better stewards of the land and natural resources.”
Audubon International is an environmental organization dedicated to educating, assisting, and inspiring millions of people from all walks of life to protect and sustain the land, water, wildlife, and natural resources around them.
