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.
Learn More
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn More
Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture depends on healthy soils, clean water, and intact ecosystems.
Learn More
Access For All
Many of the lands we conserve are open for public enjoyment, contributing deeply to the health and vibrancy of our community.
Learn More
Big News at Big Waters
Big Waters Land Trust invites the community to enjoy nature and family-friendly trivia at Bay Preserve
Big Waters Land Trust is bringing back its annual Summer Trivia Showdown at Bay Preserve on August 19 from 5:00 p.m.
– 8:00 p.m. Gather a team of up to eight players for a free evening of conservation-themed trivia, family fun, and friendly competition. The winning team will receive a private guided hike or kayak outing for up to 10 people, plus year-long bragging rights. Food will be available for purchase from Killik’s Kitchen, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for this outdoor picnic-style event.
Big Waters Land Trust receives $2,500 grant from Junior League of Sarasota
Big Waters Land Trust has received a $2,500 grant from the Junior League of Sarasota to support its Community Outreach and Education Nutrition and Hydration initiative. The grant will help provide healthy snacks and beverages during free, nature-based education programs throughout 2026, ensuring participants of all ages can stay nourished, hydrated, and engaged while connecting with the outdoors. Through this support, Big Waters continues its commitment to making environmental education more accessible and welcoming for the community.
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.
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 …
Prescribed Fire in Florida Presentation
2026-08-11T10:00:00
Join Sarah Denison Williams, Community Education Manager with Big Waters Land Trust, for an insightful presentation on the critical role …
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 …
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 …
Wild About Nature Festival 2027
2027-04-03T11:00:00
Wild About Nature returns to Bay Preserve! Get ready for a fun-filled day on the shore of Little Sarasota Bay …
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
