Woodloch Resort is dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences while preserving the natural beauty around it. As sustainability becomes an increasingly vital focus, the resort is ramping up its efforts to reduce its ecological footprint, with farm-to-table dining being one of the standout initiatives. During a visit to Blackmore Farm, just down the road from The Lodge at Woodloch, Deanna explores where many of the dishes served at Tree Restaurant originate. Derrick Braun, the Farmicist, shares that the farm grows many of the ingredients featured on the restaurant's menu. The farm operates with innovative "high tunnels" that allow for year-round crop production, ensuring fresh produce is available even in winter.

Blackmore Farm, named after a former property owner who started a garden there 80 years ago, primarily grows crops for The Lodge's restaurant. Any surplus produce is shared with the other Woodloch properties. The farm team and chefs work closely together to craft menus based on what’s freshly harvested each day. Derrick also highlights the farm’s educational approach, noting, “We do a harvest class once a week, where guests take home bags of produce to cook themselves.” This hands-on experience brings guests closer to the source of their meals.

Woodloch also takes pride in its large-scale composting system, which recycles around 200 pounds of food scraps daily from the restaurant to create rich, sustainable nutrients for the crops. The farm's diverse range of crops, including both vegetables and orchard-grown produce, further exemplifies the resort's commitment to sustainability. As Derrick puts it, “There’s some security in knowing where your food comes from,” reinforcing the connection between guests and the food they enjoy at Woodloch.

Beyond the farm, Woodloch integrates sustainability across its operations. Bob Kiesendahl explains how the resort combines luxury with eco-conscious practices: “All the faucets are filtered water, and guests are given recyclable bottles to refill throughout the property.” Even the spa’s signature rosemary mint scent is sourced from the resort’s garden, emphasizing Woodloch’s commitment to sustainability. From eco-friendly dining practices to organic chemicals used on the golf course, Woodloch blends luxury with environmental responsibility. Woodloch is leading the way in sustainable tourism, offering guests the chance to relax, reconnect with nature, and leave a minimal environmental impact.