Access to open spaces is essential for physical health, mental well-being, and community connection. Yet, as development spreads, natural areas are disappearing, limiting opportunities for people to experience nature, exercise, and find respite from daily life. Protecting land ensures that everyone—regardless of background or location—has access to parks, trails, and wild spaces.
Economically, well-maintained natural spaces attract businesses, increase property values, and support local economies through ecotourism and outdoor recreation. Conserved lands provide places for hiking, biking, fishing, and gathering with family and friends. They also serve as outdoor classrooms, offering children and adults the chance to connect with nature, learn about the environment, and develop a lifelong appreciation for conservation.
Kids Need Nature
Being outdoors enhances cognitive, emotional, and social development, helping children learn to process sensory information and understand the world around them. Experiences in nature build a lifelong bond with the environment, inspiring a new generation to care for the earth and the many wonderful creatures who inhabit it.
Better Health and Well-Being
Beyond recreation and beautiful special places to recharge and unwind, nature protects our community from storm surge and flooding, while providing us with clean water, healthy food, and fresh air. Numerous studies show that time in nature lowers stress, boosts happiness, and promotes overall well-being in both children and adults.
Strengthening Community
Time in nature increases our happiness and community connections! Engaging in outdoor activities helps strengthen community by providing opportunities for social interaction. Whether through group hikes, picnics, or community events, spending time in nature helps strengthen social bonds and foster community togetherness and well-being.
VolunteerConnect with the land you protect
Get on the land with our education and outreach team! To connect more people to nature, we provide a plethora of high-quality nature-based experiences for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Our youth program, launched in 2017, provides WOW! moments to thousands of children, and our popular community education program, launched in 2021, offers activities and events for all ages.
The lands we protect provide the community with natural spaces to explore, learn, and grow. Connecting people to nature is more than conservation; it’s about building a brighter, healthier future for everyone.
Start planning your visit and connect with nature today !
Explore these public lands we helped protect.
Robinson Preserve Expansion
Pine Island Flatwoods Preserve
more opportunities to get outside
Engaging and Inspiring Youth
Community Education and Outreach
