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
Big Waters Land Trust accepting submissions for third annual Community Art Show
Big Waters Land Trust is now accepting submissions for its third annual Community Art Show, a juried exhibition celebrating Florida’s natural beauty through local artists’ paintings and drawings. Open to all ages and experience levels, the show invites Florida-inspired works that highlight the state’s land, water, and wildlife. Submissions are open through April 30, with selected pieces to be exhibited this summer at Bay Preserve.
Bishop-Parker Foundation Awards $7,668 Grant to Big Waters Land Trust for 2026 Watershed Explorers
The Bishop-Parker Foundation has awarded a $7,668 grant to Big Waters Land Trust to support its 2026 Watershed Explorers Summer Camp, providing 15 underserved teens in Manatee County with a free, week-long program focused on environmental education, outdoor exploration, and leadership development.
Big Waters Land Trust Announces Justin Smith as Chief Program Officer
Big Waters Land Trust is pleased to welcome Justin Smith as Chief Program Officer. In this leadership role, Smith will guide efforts in land conservation, stewardship, public policy, and community engagement—bringing over two decades of experience and a proven ability to advance partnerships and protect critical landscapes throughout Florida.
Big Waters Land Trust Awarded $5,000 in support of nature-based education programs
The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation has awarded a $5,000 grant to Big Waters Land Trust to support two inclusive, nature-based education programs in 2026: Dip & Discover: Community Water Quality Exploration and Nature Journaling: Observation & Reflection. These programs will engage approximately 70 Lakewood Ranch residents in hands-on environmental learning and outdoor wellness experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems, water quality, and conservation.
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
2026-04-01T09:00:00
Artists of all ages and experience levels are invited to submit their original work to our third annual Community Art …
Saving Land and Water Presentation
2026-04-22T14:00:00
Big Waters Land Trust is a local non-profit that has been working to save land and water, from southern Tampa …
Nature Journaling at the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center
2026-04-25T09:00:00
Join us at the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center at the Celery Fields for a guided nature journaling event, where participants will learn to observe …
Nature Journaling at the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center
2026-04-25T09:00:00
Join us at the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center at the Celery Fields for a guided nature journaling event, where participants will learn to observe …
Nature Journaling at Heron’s Nest Nature Park
2026-05-13T18:00:00
Join us at Heron’s Nest Nature Park for a guided nature journaling event, where participants will learn to observe and …
Nature Journaling at Heron’s Nest Nature Park
2026-05-16T09:00:00
Join us at Heron’s Nest Nature Park for a guided nature journaling event, where participants will learn to observe and …
Pine Island Preserve Volunteer TAG-ALONG Day
2026-04-29T09:30:00
Join the stewardship team for a day in the field! We will be primarily focused on treating young invasive trees, …
Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic
2026-05-01T09:00:00
We need volunteer help at Tatum Sawgrass Scrub Preserve! During this event, you may help with site maintenance and land …
Myakka Headwaters Preserve Volunteer Tag-Along Day
2026-05-28T09:00:00
Join the Big Waters Land Trust stewardship team for a day in the field! Let’s splash through the pop ash! …
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
