OSPREY, FL (March 11, 2026) — Big Waters Land Trust is proud to announce the permanent conservation of approximately 50 acres of rural open space located on Corkscrew Road near the community of Immokalee in the historic village of Corkscrew, Collier County, Florida. This significant conservation achievement protects critical wildlife habitat, preserves the area’s rural character, and safeguards a vital landscape within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
The conserved land is comprised of two adjoining parcels that together create a permanently protected buffer for the surrounding ecosystem. Several species supported by this landscape are identified in Florida’s State Wildlife Action Plan as Species of Greatest Conservation Need, underscoring the ecological importance of this conservation effort.
These properties directly adjoin and will forever buffer the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW), a vast 60,000+ acre conservation landscape spanning Lee and Collier counties. CREW plays a critical role in flood protection, water purification, aquifer recharge, and provides essential habitat for iconic and endangered wildlife including the Florida panther, snail kite, and wood stork.
“The permanent protection of this land ensures that the natural beauty and ecological value of the Corkscrew region will endure for generations,” said Brooke Langston, Director of Land Protection at Big Waters Land Trust. “By conserving this rural open space, we are strengthening wildlife corridors, protecting water resources, and preserving the breathtaking views enjoyed by visitors to the nearby CREW Marsh hiking trails- forever protected from encroaching development.”
Hugh and Judy Starnes have been dedicated stewards of their family’s land in eastern Collier County. Their generous donation of a conservation easement to Big Waters preserves their legacy for forever while allowing them to keep their cattle on their land. The Starnes’ commitment is just one-way landowners can protect their land, whether natural or working land, for lasting environmental benefits. The impact of their philanthropy is immeasurable.
This conservation success demonstrates what is possible when landowners and land trusts work together to protect Florida’s water resources, wildlife habitat, and natural beauty for the benefit of both people and nature, now and 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.
