Party in paradise 2026
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Bay Preserve as Party in Paradise returns! Celebrate with fellow conservation supporters while helping protect our land and waterways for the benefit of people and nature.
Who We Are
We protect land and water 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 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 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 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.
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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.
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Increasing Climate Resilience
Land conservation plays a crucial role in enhancing climate resiliency. Every acre conserved, wetland restored, and tree planted contributes to a resilient and sustainable future.
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Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture depends on healthy soils, clean water, and intact ecosystems.
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Access For All
Many of the lands we conserve are open for public enjoyment, contributing deeply to the health and vibrancy of our community.
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Big News at Big Waters
Joel Johnson joins Big Waters’ Board of Trustees
Big Waters Land Trust is pleased to welcome Joel Johnson to its Board of Trustees. A longtime supporter of Big Waters, Johnson brings his professional expertise and a personal commitment to protecting the region’s natural spaces for future generations.
Congratulations to Big Waters’ annual Summer Photo Contest winners
Big Waters Land Trust has announced the winners of its seventh annual Summer Photo Contest, celebrating the beauty of natural Florida through the lenses of talented photographers from across the state. Explore the winning images and cast your vote in the People’s Choice competition through July 31.
Big Waters Land Trust announces third annual Community Art Show honorees
Big Waters Land Trust is proud to announce the juried selections and award recipients of its third annual Community Art Show, celebrating the beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes through the eyes of local artists. This year’s exhibition features 20 original works selected by a distinguished panel of jurors and highlights the creativity, talent, and diverse perspectives of artists inspired by the natural world. The 2026 Best in Show honor was awarded to Spoonbill by Viktorija Bulava, with Merit Awards presented to Faith Bradburn-Keller, Winnie Clayton, and Mary Louise O’Connell. The exhibit is on display at Big Waters Land Trust headquarters through August 31, 2026.
Local artists celebrate nature in Big Waters’ Community Art Show Opening Reception
Nature and creativity will take center stage at Big Waters Land Trust’s annual Community Art Show Opening Reception on Wednesday, June 3, from 5 pm – 7 pm at Bay Preserve in Osprey. Showcasing juried paintings and drawings inspired by Florida’s natural landscapes, the exhibit highlights the beauty and diversity of the state through the eyes of local artists. Guests will enjoy an evening of art, conservation, and community as the Best-In-Show and merit award winners are revealed.
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.
2026 Community Art Show Opening Reception
2026-06-03T17:00:00
Join Big Waters Land Trust for the opening reception of our third annual Community Art Show! This juried art exhibit …
Living with Alligators Presentation
2026-07-21T14:00:00
Explore the fascinating life history of alligators and learn how to live in harmony with these ancient reptiles. Love them …
Pine Island Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic
2026-07-24T09:00:00
We need volunteer help on Pine Island! During this event, we will probably be planting pine seedlings. Other possible activities …
Pine Island Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic
2026-07-24T09:00:00
We need volunteer help on Pine Island! During this event, we will probably be planting pine seedlings. Other possible activities …
Incredible Insects Family Program
2026-08-15T09:00:00
Join us to explore the wild and wonderful world of incredible insects! In this interactive program for children and their …
Walk in a Wetland
2026-08-29T08:00:00
Join us for a naturalist-guided tour and wet walk at Big Waters Land Trust’s Myakka Headwaters Preserve. Along the way, participants will …
Pine Island Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic
2026-07-24T09:00:00
We need volunteer help on Pine Island! During this event, we will probably be planting pine seedlings. Other possible activities …
We are the last generation that can save this land.
Together, we will ensure that the human and natural worlds 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
