For its sensitive treatment of the environment during the development of the Blairstone Forest neighborhood, the Mad Dog Company was awarded the Leon County Environmental Award in 1986, making this neighborhood the only residential community to ever receive this award. Blairstone Forest is proof that developers don't have to assault the landscape to make a profit, that they can far exceed tree and landscape ordinances, and that they can turn storm water drainage necessities into community amenities. The neighborhood has squirrels, raccoons, possums, rabbits, large owls and a myriad of other birds. The owls flourish here because of the presence of so many beechwood trees, which have large natural openings, providing the owls with perfect homes. There is a four-acre lake in the neighborhood, with an island in the middle of the lake.
Neighbors reach the gazebo on the island by using a wooden footbridge.
Although Blairstone Forest is just a short drive from downtown Tallahassee, once a resident enters the neighborhood, the sounds of the city are gone. The homes are surrounded by noise-deadening trees, and the primary sounds to be heard are the sounds of calling birds and scurrying squirrels. The Mad Dog company created the Blairstone Forest Community Association, Inc., which is now controlled entirely by the neighborhood residents, and which oversees strict covenants that are written into deed restrictions for each housing site. Residents have been attracted to the neighborhood by the knowledge that the houses already there will not drastically change in appearance, and the surrounding woods will never be built upon. In order for any structure to be built or remodeled in the neighborhood, the Community Association's Architectural Review Board must approve its design, use of building materials, exterior appearance and placement on the lot.