Lemon Bay
The extensive mangrove forests and seagrass beds of the property naturally reduce erosion, store excess nutrients, improve water quality, and protect homes and roads from storm surge.
The Story
In 2022, Big Waters began working with the property’s conservation-minded realtor, Scott Polisar, to protect the 34 coastal acres. Big Waters then worked with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to incorporate the parcels in Florida Forever priority boundaries. FDEP purchased the property for conservation in January 2025 using Florida Forever Funds and it will be managed by the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves.
Why it Matters
Protecting this land strengthens resiliency for the barrier island community of Manasota Key. The extensive mangrove forests and seagrass beds of the property naturally reduce erosion, store excess nutrients, and improve water quality. The newly conserved land also helps safeguard the adjacent development and infrastructure – especially along Manasota Key’s Beach Rd, which provides the primary ingress/egress to the key – by protecting shorelines from storm-driven waves and flooding.
“If the community had not banded together to champion the protection of these 34 acres, they would not be conserved today. We thank local residents, Scott Polisar, and the State of Florida for working together to protect this special place – future generations will thank you too!” - Christine P. Johnson, president of Big Waters Land Trust.
ConnectivityWater
Big Waters Values
Carbon SequestrationClean WaterImperiled Species
Just the Facts
34
acres
Date Acquired
2025
- Located within Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve and part of Charlotte Harbor
- Part of Sarasota County’s Lemon Bay Blueway Paddling Trail
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) purchased the property for conservation in January 2025 using Florida Forever Funds
- The land will be managed by the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves
