Gaining Ground

Embracing Sustainability: The Path to Zero-Waste Events

At Big Waters Land Trust, we’re committed to a future where both the human and natural worlds thrive. One of the ways we are working towards this future is by incorporating eco-friendly principles into our events and everyday operations. Our goal is to eventually become entirely zero-waste. Creating and implementing a zero-waste guide tailored to … Read more

Weathering the Storm: How Florida’s Wildlife Responds to Hurricanes

Hurricanes are a powerful force of nature, bringing high winds, heavy rainfall, and massive storm surges that can significantly alter the landscape. Our native wildlife has evolved strategies to cope with these extreme weather events, often relying on instinctive survival tactics and adaptations developed over thousands of years. From birds and butterflies to large mammals … Read more

Protecting and Attracting Florida’s Native Butterflies

Florida is home to an incredible array of butterflies and moths that adorn our landscapes with vibrant colors and graceful flight. More than 160 butterfly species breed in Florida and about 200 species migrate through the state. These delicate creatures captivate our imagination and play important roles in nature. Our native butterflies require a broad … Read more

From Fear to Fascination: Understanding and Appreciating Snakes

Snake

Snakes are among the most feared, maligned, and persecuted organisms on Earth. From biblical narratives to modern media, snakes are often cast as sinister creatures and symbols of temptation and danger. Despite these misconceptions, snakes are fascinating animals with great ecological significance. In this blog post, we’ll explore snake biology, discuss what to do if … Read more

A Wildly Good Time!

On Saturday, April 1, our annual Wild About Nature Festival returned! This year was a reintroduction after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic and then cancellation due to severe weather warnings in 2022.  An engaging afternoon of family fun with more than 30 partner organizations present, the festival’s return was a great success! This … Read more

Spring Adventures Await: Immerse Yourself in Our Vibrant Events and Programs!

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to enjoy what’s left of our spring. Here’s to the remaining months of spring-filled adventures, exploration, and family fun. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor experiences or engaging educational activities, with our free line-up of programs and events we have something for everyone. Join us … Read more

Land Conservation and Climate Change – Plus What You Can Do To Help!

What does land conservation have to do with climate change you ask? Great question! Saving land, whether it be tidal wetlands, mangrove forests, or inland ranches and marshlands, is our best natural defense against flooding, and a powerful tool to help protect communities against the impacts of our changing climate. But what exactly is climate … Read more

Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Hidden Gems in Southwest Florida

As winter descends and visitors flock to Florida, finding tranquility in nature can become a challenging endeavor. Our most popular parks and beaches are brimming with people seeking to relax in the sunshine and enjoy our perfect weather, but all human activity can detract from nature’s serenity. In this post, I’ll take you off the … Read more

The Joy of Not Knowing

A few years ago, I went on a field trip with other land trust educators to a preserve owned by a North Carolina land trust. After purchasing the land, the trust handed it over to a small outdoor school that hosted almost all of its classes and lessons outdoors. Parents would send their children off … Read more

Did the Hurricane Kill My Pine Trees?

Did the Hurricane Kill My Pine Trees? Short answer, probably. But the real question is, how can you be sure, and what do you do next? This year, many pine trees are looking bad. They look dead, or sick. In southwest Florida, the pine trees are usually slash pine, Pinus elliottii, but sometimes long leaf pine, Pinus palustris. … Read more