Big Waters Land Trust Announces Permanent Protection of 13 Acres Adjacent to Crane Park in Manatee County
Big Waters Land Trust has permanently protected 13 acres along the Myakka River next to Crane Park in Manatee County, expanding public access and safeguarding vital habitats through a partnership with Theolla B. Cannon Revocable Trust and Manatee County Government.
Artist Lauren Marshall Exhibit with Big Waters Land Trust at Bay Preserve
Join Big Waters Land Trust in celebrating Florida artist Lauren Marshall and her stunning new exhibit, The Keystone Connection. Inspired by the Gulf Coast’s wild beauty, this collection highlights the vital relationships between coastal wildlife — from mangroves to spoonbills. Don’t miss the opening reception on October 8, 5–7 p.m., featuring light refreshments, artwork for sale, and a chance to meet the artist.
Congratulations to Big Waters’ annual Summer Photo Contest People’s Choice winners
Big Waters Land Trust has announced the People’s Choice winners of its sixth annual Summer Photo Contest. Top honors went to Dragonfly by Chad Mynatt, winning both The Art of Nature and Best-In-Show. “We’re inspired by the creativity and connection to nature shown in every entry,” said Tianna Boswell-Porter, Acting Director of Marketing and Events. Winning photos and the full exhibit are online at bigwaterslandtrust.org and on Facebook.
Time is Running Out: Last Chance for Early Bird Tickets to Big Waters’ Party in Paradise
Don’t Miss Out – Early Bird Tickets Ending Soon! Time is running out to grab early bird tickets for Big Waters’ Party in Paradise: Into the Night, happening Saturday, November 8 at Bay Preserve in Osprey. This unforgettable evening will feature gourmet food, signature cocktails, live entertainment, a Midnight Bazaar Market, and dancing under the stars — all in celebration of land and water conservation.
Bay Explorers Summer Experience Empowers Local Youth to Discover Sarasota Bay’s Natural and Cultural Treasures
This summer, 20 teens from Sarasota and Manatee counties took part in the inaugural Bay Explorers Summer Experience—a free, two-week environmental program hosted by Big Waters Land Trust and funded by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. From kayaking and snorkeling to birdwatching and stormwater science, students explored local ecosystems while learning from conservation professionals. The program broke down barriers and opened doors to future careers in science, public service, and environmental stewardship.
Big Waters Land Trust invites the community to enjoy nature and family-friendly trivia
Big Waters Land Trust is bringing back its beloved summer trivia night on August 1, 2025, with a fun, winner-takes-all twist! Join the free, family-friendly event at Bay Preserve in Osprey from 5:00–8:00 pm for conservation-themed trivia, food from Killik’s Kitchen, and a chance to win a guided outdoor adventure.




