Safeguarding Our Waters

Land conservation is essential to protecting water quality because what happens on land directly impacts the quality of the water flowing through and from it.

Protecting Imperiled Nature

The loss of natural habitat is the greatest threat to biodiversity.

Increasing Climate Resiliency

While no single solution can resolve the climate crisis, every acre conserved, wetland restored, and tree planted contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future.

Sustainable Agriculture

Farmland is more than just open space—it is the foundation of our food system, rural economies, and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Access for All

Protecting land and water opens doors for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of time outdoors

NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR OUR SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNITY ART SHOW! LEARN MORE

We protect the land and water in Southwest Florida for the benefit of people and nature.

We are the last generation that can save this land. Together, we will ensure that the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida flourish together.

By saving land forever, we protect wild places for kids and grown-ups, for wildlife and waterways.

Save Your Land

Big Waters protects natural areas and ranchlands here in Southwest Florida. Together with landowners like you, we are working to maintain the health and productivity of Florida’s land and water, while at the same time preserving the natural beauty and rural character of our community as more and more land is developed.
Carlton Preserve

Volunteer Opportunities

Our volunteer program is growing and the opportunities to get involved are as varied as the landscapes we protect. One thing all our volunteers have in common is a strong belief in our mission and the desire to use their talents to help safeguard Florida’s land and water.

What We Do

At Big Waters Land Trust, we envision a future in which the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida flourish together.

Safeguarding Our Waters

Land conservation is essential to protecting water quality because what happens on land directly impacts the quality of the water flowing through and from it.
Learn More
Florida Black Bear

Protecting Imperiled Nature

When we preserve natural areas, we safeguard critical habitats for diverse wildlife. Saving land protects native plants and animals by safeguarding the places they need to survive.

Increasing Climate Resilience

Land conservation plays a crucial role in enhancing climate resiliency. Every acre conserved, wetland restored, and tree planted contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future.

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture depends on healthy soils, clean water, and intact ecosystems.
Legacy Trail

Access For All

Many of the lands we conserve are open for public enjoyment, contributing deeply to the health and vibrancy of our community.

Big News at Big Waters

Big Waters Land Trust reveals new Strategic Conservation Plan targeting Southwest Florida’s most urgent conservation opportunities

Big Waters Land Trust proudly announces the release of its inaugural Strategic Conservation Plan (SCP) — a bold, data-driven roadmap designed to protect Southwest Florida’s most critical natural resources. Grounded in science and community collaboration, the plan centers around six guiding Conservation Values: Clean Water, Imperiled Species, Coastal Resiliency, Sustainable Agriculture, Access for All, and Carbon Sequestration. Through advanced geospatial analysis and extensive research, Big Waters has identified nine high-impact Focus Areas where strategic conservation efforts will deliver the greatest benefit to both nature and people.

Big Waters Land Trust protects 34 acres in Englewood

Big Waters Land Trust has permanently protected 34 acres on Sandpiper Key in Englewood, part of the Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve and the Lemon Bay Blueway Paddling Trail. The land, rich in mangroves and seagrass beds, helps reduce erosion, improve water quality, and shield nearby infrastructure from storm impacts. The property was conserved through collaboration with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and funding from Florida Forever.

Big Waters Land Trust accepting submissions for second annual Community Art Show

Big Waters Land Trust invites local artists of all ages to take part in its second annual Community Art Show, a juried exhibition celebrating Florida’s natural beauty through painting and drawing. Artists are encouraged to submit Florida-centric works highlighting the state’s landscapes, wildlife, and waterways.

Big Waters Land Trust, Sarasota County, and The Elling Eide Center partner to protect just over 14 acres on Little Sarasota Bay

Big Waters Land Trust, Sarasota County, and The Elling Eide Center have successfully protected 14.5 acres of rare coastal uplands on Little Sarasota Bay. This conservation effort ensures the preservation of important shoreline habitats, including a maritime hammock home to tropical plants and wildlife. The property, adjacent to the Bayonne Preserve, plays a crucial role in protecting against erosion and flooding while supporting imperiled species.

Upcoming Events

We provide many opportunities for you and your family to get involved in Big ways. Explore some of our event categories or view all our events.

Johnson Preserve Braden River Paddle

2025-04-26T11:00:00

Join us for a guided paddle launching from Johnson Preserve. As we paddle downstream, your naturalist guide will interpret the plants …

Summer Photo Contest

2025-05-01T09:00:00

Join Big Waters Land Trust for our Annual Summer Photo Contest! Photographers of all ages and experience levels are invited …

Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Youth Science Program

2025-05-08T10:00:00

Join us for an immersive experience where you’ll learn how to collect and identify small freshwater creatures, unlocking vital insights …

Johnson Preserve Braden River Paddle

2025-04-26T11:00:00

Join us for a guided paddle launching from Johnson Preserve. As we paddle downstream, your naturalist guide will interpret the plants …
Bee on a flower

Carlton Reserve Wildflower Walk

2025-05-22T09:00:00

Join us for a naturalist-guided walk at the T. Mabry Carlton Jr. Memorial Reserve as we look for Florida’s spring …

May Lunch and Learn

2025-05-14T11:30:00

You’re invited to join Big Waters for an in-depth look at the role we play in protecting the places that make a …

Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Youth Science Program

2025-05-08T10:00:00

Join us for an immersive experience where you’ll learn how to collect and identify small freshwater creatures, unlocking vital insights …

We are the last generation that can save this land.

Together, we will ensure that the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida flourish together. 

Population Growth

Over the next 25 years, population in our region is expected to grow by almost

40%

Water Consumption

By 2039, Future demand for water will exceed capacity by

538 Million Gallons per Day

Land Loss

2.7 million acres of native habitat will be lost to roads, shopping malls, and subdivisions within the next 45 years.

2.7 Million acres

Ways to Give

Donate

Legacy Society

Sponsorship Opportunities