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.

Protecting Imperiled Nature

The loss of natural habitat is the greatest threat to biodiversity.

Increasing Climate Resiliency

While no single solution can resolve the climate crisis, every acre conserved, wetland restored, and tree planted contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future.

Sustainable Agriculture

Farmland is more than just open space—it is the foundation of our food system, rural economies, and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Access for All

Protecting land and water opens doors for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of time outdoors

 2025 Summer Photo Contest Gallery! LEARN MORE

2026 FEAST UPon the Fields

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at beautiful Longino Ranch!

Party In Paradise Logo White

Party In Paradise is Back!

Join us at Bay Preserve for a magical night of fun, friends, and conservation—all under the stars.

We protect the land and water in Southwest Florida 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 Southwest Florida flourish together.

By saving land forever, we protect wild places for kids and grown-ups, for wildlife and waterways.

Save Your Land

Big Waters protects natural areas and ranchlands here in Southwest 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.
Carlton Preserve

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 Southwest 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.
Learn More
Florida Black Bear

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.
Learn More

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.
Learn More

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture depends on healthy soils, clean water, and intact ecosystems.
Learn More
Legacy Trail

Access For All

Many of the lands we conserve are open for public enjoyment, contributing deeply to the health and vibrancy of our community.
Learn More

Big News at Big Waters

Local artists celebrate nature in Big Waters’ Community Art Show Opening Reception

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.

Celebrate the beauty of the Sunshine State and submit your photos now to Big Waters Land Trust’s seventh annual Summer Photo Contest

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.

The Florida Highwaymen Event Returns to Bay Preserve on May 6

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 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.

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.
Sea of Fish and Light - Brice Claypoole

Summer Photo Contest 2026

2026-05-01T09:00:00

Join Big Waters Land Trust for our 7th Annual Summer Photo Contest! Photographers of all ages and experience levels are …

2026 Community Art Show Opening Reception

2026-06-03T17:00:00

Join Big Waters Land Trust for the opening reception of our third annual Community Art Show! This juried art exhibit …

Myakka Headwaters Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic

2026-06-26T08:00:00

We need volunteer help at Myakka Headwaters Preserve! Activity and details to be determined closer to the day of the …
Sea of Fish and Light - Brice Claypoole

Summer Photo Contest 2026

2026-05-01T09:00:00

Join Big Waters Land Trust for our 7th Annual Summer Photo Contest! Photographers of all ages and experience levels are …

Pine Island Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic

2026-07-24T09:00:00

We need volunteer help on Pine Island! During this event, we will probably be planting pine seedlings. Other possible activities …

Orange Hammock Summer Butterfly Count

2026-06-30T10:00:00

Explore, discover, and identify butterflies at Orange Hammock Wildlife Management Area. Join us at the Orange Hammock Wildlife Management Area …

Pine Island Preserve Volunteer Event and Picnic

2026-07-24T09:00:00

We need volunteer help on Pine Island! During this event, we will probably be planting pine seedlings. Other possible activities …

We are the last generation that can save this land.

Together, we will ensure that the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida 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

Ways to Give

Donate

Legacy Society

Sponsorship Opportunities