join us to feast upon the fields! Sunday, february 23 at walton ranch Learn More
Who We Are
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.
Landowner Resources
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.
Get Involved
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.
Safeguard Our Water
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.
Connect People with Nature
Many of the lands we conserve are open for public enjoyment, contributing deeply to the health and vibrancy of our community.
Create Corridors
Connectivity is one of our top priorities when evaluating opportunities for conservation. When we connect protected landscapes, we create corridors, which are critical to the future of both people and nature.
Protect Nature
When we preserve natural areas, we safeguard critical habitats for diverse wildlife. Florida is home to a remarkable array of endemic species.
Big News at Big Waters
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.
January Lunch and Learn
2025-01-22T11:30:00
You’re invited to join Big Waters Land Trust for an in-depth look at the role we play in protecting the places that …
Myakka Headwaters Preserve Volunteer Event & Picnic
2025-01-24T09:00:00
We need volunteer help at Myakka Headwaters Preserve! During this event, you will help with site maintenance and land restoration. …
Orange Hammock Butterfly Count
2025-01-28T13:00:00
Join us for a naturalist-guided walking tour of the Orange Hammock Wildlife Management Area as we look for and identify …
Deer Prairie Creek Paddle and Lunch
2025-02-14T09:30:00
Join us for a guided paddle of Deer Prairie Creek and the lower Myakka River! As we make our way …
Johnson Preserve Braden River Paddle
2025-04-26T11:00:00
Join us for a special sunrise paddle departing from Bay Preserve! As wading birds fly through cotton candy skies and …
Orange Hammock Butterfly Count
2025-01-28T13:00:00
Join us for a naturalist-guided walking tour of the Orange Hammock Wildlife Management Area as we look for and identify …
March Lunch and Learn
2025-03-12T11:30:00
You’re invited to join Big Waters Land Trust for an in-depth look at the role we play in protecting the places that …
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 …
Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve Volunteer Day
2025-02-07T09:00:00
We need volunteer help at Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve! During this event, you will help with site maintenance and land …
Upper Myakka Preserve Volunteer Day
2025-03-28T09:00:00
We need volunteer help at Upper Myakka Preserve! During this event, you will help with land restoration. Most likely, we …
Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve Volunteer Day
2025-04-25T09:00:00
We need volunteer help at Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve! During this event, you will help with land restoration. Most likely, …
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
Help Save Nature
