Honored as Big Waters Land Trust’s 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year, Ann Van Cott’s vision and generosity have connected generations of Floridians to nature while protecting the region’s land and water for the future

The Bishop-Parker Foundation has awarded a $7,500 grant to Big Waters Land Trust to enhance its Community Outreach and Education Program. This funding helps the organization provide inclusive, hands-on outdoor experiences, connecting underserved youth, differently-abled individuals, and families to nature while fostering environmental literacy and community connections.

Big Waters Land Trust announces the return of its beloved Feast Upon the Fields farm-to-table luncheon on February 22 at Longino Ranch in east Sarasota County—one of the region’s most significant conservation successes. Proceeds support the land trust’s mission to protect land and water for people and nature.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Join Big Waters Land Trust for an enchanting evening Into the Night at the highly anticipated return of Party in Paradise. Taking place Saturday, November 8 at Bay Preserve in Osprey, this moonlit celebration promises an unforgettable blend of culinary delights, craft cocktails, live entertainment, and dancing — all in support of protecting Southwest Florida’s land and water. Guests will step into a transformed nocturnal wonderland where nature and art intertwine.