Making Eco-Friendly Experiences a Priority at Black Prong
As a Florida resort rooted in equestrian life and outdoor recreation, nature is at the heart of everything we do. Each time a guest steps outside their cottage or cabin at Black Prong, they’re greeted by the wild beauty of Florida’s Nature Coast.
The fresh scent of longleaf pine drifting in from our neighbor, Goethe State Forest…
The steady rhythm of horses moving down a sandy trail…
The sudden flash of a pileated woodpecker darting among ancient oak trees…
Each moment is a reminder of nature’s quiet magic—and the joy of reconnecting with the land.
That’s why we’ve made it our mission to treat this property—and the surrounding areas we rely on—with deep respect and care.
Why Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability Matter
As a destination for equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts, we understand how much our guests value untouched landscapes, clean air, and thriving wildlife. Protecting the natural world isn’t just good stewardship—it’s essential to who we are.
The neighboring Goethe State Forest spans more than 75,000 acres and is home to at least 19 distinct ecosystems, from flatwoods and swamps to sandhill regions. It provides vital habitat for dozens of rare or endangered species, including red-cockaded woodpeckers, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, and Sherman’s fox squirrels. The region’s natural springs, too, offer refuge to otters, manatees, and a rich diversity of life.
Our commitment goes beyond our guests’ experience.
We’re dedicated to preserving these wild places for the generations that follow.
What We’re Doing: Sustainability in Action
Renewable Energy & Efficiency
Harnessing the power of the sun and smart technology, we’ve made major strides in reducing our carbon footprint. From solar pool heating to energy-efficient lighting, we’re committed to clean, sustainable energy at every level of the resort.
- Installation of 452 high-efficiency Solarever solar panels and SolarEdge inverter technology across the roof of the resort’s event pavilion and adjacent pool house. It is projected to generate more than 265,000 kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually — offsetting approximately 73.8% of the resort’s total electricity consumption. This project was completed with the assistance of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
- Heliocol Solar Pool Heating System – Keeps pool warm for over 290 days/year without fossil fuels; offsets nearly 4 million pounds of CO₂ (equivalent to planting 14,745 trees).
- Solar-powered lights – Used in the parking field and various resort trails throughout the property.
- Solar-powered sign lighting – Wayfinding signage powered by the sun.
- Timers for lighting, irrigation, and operations – Help minimize unnecessary electricity use across the property.
- Low-energy LED lights in cottages – Use 85% less energy than standard bulbs and last over a decade.
As part of this effort, by June 2027 we’ll expect to be in full compliance with Dark Sky lighting standards designed to reduce light pollution and work in harmony with nearby wildlife. Once we’ve achieved that objective, we will apply for designation as a Dark Sky Approved Resort.
Eco-Friendly Guest Transportation
Exploring nature shouldn’t come at a cost to it. That’s why Black Prong provides all guests with electric golf carts to traverse our property and why we make e-bikes available for guests to explore the 75,000-acre Goethe Forest, giving guests the freedom to roam with a lighter environmental impact and a quieter ride.
- Electric ClubCar golf carts – Provided with every reservation to reduce emissions and noise.
- E-bike fleet (Bandit X-Trail Pro & Velotric Nomad 2) – Allows guests to enjoy scenic trails with low environmental impact and maximum enjoyment.
Sustainable Hospitality Choices
Every stay at Black Prong supports sustainability. We’ve carefully selected linens, takeout materials, and guest amenities that are better for the planet—without sacrificing comfort, quality, or style.
- Reduced single-use plastics – Takeout containers are paper-based, with compostable cutlery and paper bags.
- Sustainable bath towels – Made from 100% long-staple Turkish cotton and produced responsibly.
- Eco-friendly bedding – Made using wind-powered energy and free from GMOs, harsh chemicals, and pesticides; certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®.
Low-Impact Maintenance
Maintaining a pristine property doesn’t mean disturbing the peace. Our team uses battery-powered landscaping equipment and other smart tools to keep things beautiful while protecting the environment and the guest experience. We have replaced gas-powered equipment to reduce noise and emissions, especially important for a peaceful natural setting.
- Battery-powered zero-turn STIHL mowers
- Battery-powered STIHL leaf blowers
- Battery-powered STIHL push mowers
- Battery-powered STIHL hedge trimmers
- Battery-powered STIHL weed wacker
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