OSPREY, FL (April 8, 2026) – Big Waters Land Trust is pleased to announce Justin Smith as Chief Program Officer. In this role, Smith is responsible for all programs that advance the organization’s mission to protect the land and water for the benefit of people and nature: land conservation and stewardship, public policy, and community engagement.
“We are thrilled to have Justin serving in this important leadership role,” said Christine P. Johnson, President of Big Waters Land Trust. “His depth of experience in public policy, real estate, land management, and strategic partnerships will propel us forward in our work protecting critical landscapes, getting people outside and into nature, and advocating for land conservation funding and policy.”
As Chief Program Officer, Smith will forge new partnerships, quicken the pace of land conservation, coordinate advocacy efforts at all levels of government, and develop new strategies and relationships to protect working lands and natural areas throughout the region.
With more than 20 years of experience spanning government, nonprofit leadership, and agricultural land management, Smith brings a unique blend of policy expertise and hands-on land experience. He has led multi-million-dollar negotiations involving public-private partnerships, secured significant grant funding, and developed innovative programs that support conservation while shaping public policy at both the local and state levels.
Prior to joining Big Waters Land Trust, Smith served as Deputy County Administrator for DeSoto County, where he led strategic initiatives and policy development. He also served as Chief Operating Officer for an economic development organization. Earlier in his career, he worked with the Florida Department of Revenue, contributing to statewide property tax policy and helping modernize land valuation systems.
“I am honored to be part of an organization so deeply committed to protecting Florida’s natural resources,” said Smith. “Conservation is both a responsibility and a legacy, and I look forward to working alongside the team to ensure our lands and waters are preserved for future generations.”
Smith holds a Master of Science in Natural Resources Policy and Administration, with a specialization in economics, from the University of Florida. He also earned an undergraduate degree in Organizational Management and an Associate’s degree in Agricultural Business. A licensed Florida Realtor®, he remains actively engaged in agricultural operations, managing his family’s multi-generational farm. A fifth-generation Floridian, Smith has a lifelong connection to the land and is deeply committed to preserving Florida’s working lands, waters, and natural heritage for generations to come.
About Big Waters Land Trust
Big Waters protects land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Their vital work strengthens the region’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.
