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.

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.

Big Waters Land Trust is proud to announce the juried selections and award recipients of its third annual Community Art Show, celebrating the beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes through the eyes of local artists. This year’s exhibition features 20 original works selected by a distinguished panel of jurors and highlights the creativity, talent, and diverse perspectives of artists inspired by the natural world. The 2026 Best in Show honor was awarded to Spoonbill by Viktorija Bulava, with Merit Awards presented to Faith Bradburn-Keller, Winnie Clayton, and Mary Louise O’Connell. The exhibit is on display at Big Waters Land Trust headquarters through August 31, 2026.

Nature and creativity will take center stage at Big Waters Land Trust’s annual Community Art Show Opening Reception on Wednesday, June 3, from 5 pm – 7 pm at Bay Preserve in Osprey. Showcasing juried paintings and drawings inspired by Florida’s natural landscapes, the exhibit highlights the beauty and diversity of the state through the eyes of local artists. Guests will enjoy an evening of art, conservation, and community as the Best-In-Show and merit award winners are revealed.

Step into Florida’s wild beauty through the lens! Big Waters Land Trust’s Summer Photo Contest is back. Now in its seventh year, this juried, fully virtual exhibition invites photographers of all levels to capture striking landscapes, vibrant waters, and unforgettable wildlife moments.

Big Waters Land Trust will host a one-day-only exhibition featuring Florida Highwaymen heir Roy A. McLendon Jr. on May 6 at Bay Preserve. Showcasing his evocative oil paintings of Florida’s landscapes, the event will also include a live painting demonstration by the artist. A portion of artwork sales will support Big Waters’ mission to protect land and water, making this a unique opportunity to experience Florida’s cultural heritage while giving back to conservation.

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.

As Florida continues to experience rapid growth, protecting native lands has never been more critical. This op-ed highlights how local, voter-supported conservation programs in Sarasota and Manatee counties have successfully preserved tens of thousands of acres – safeguarding wildlife habitats, water quality, and the natural spaces that define our region. With these programs set to expire in 2029, voters will soon decide whether to continue investing in the protection of the places that make our community unique.

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 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.