Christine Johnson, president of Big Waters, didn’t hold back her gratitude. “We’re so lucky to have such a dedicated, passionate conservation community,” she said. “Ann Van Cott’s commitment lets us achieve real impact across the region. Her ongoing support—her time, resources, and heart—make a huge difference.”

Ann’s not new to this. For decades, she’s poured her energy into connecting people with Florida’s wild places. She established the Natural Heritage Fund, which, over the years, has helped create nature trails, kayak launches, picnic spots, educational signs—pretty much anything that gets folks outdoors and appreciating nature. Her fingerprints are all over Big Waters projects, from Orange Hammock Ranch to Red Bug Slough, and the Rewilding the Quad Parcels at the Celery Fields.

Her drive and generosity haven’t just powered up land and water protection—they’ve also brought more people and partners into the conservation fold. Ann’s influence inspires others to get involved, and that ripple effect helps the entire region thrive, now and for the future.

This year’s Conservation Celebration took place at Big Waters’ Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey. Along with honoring Ann, the event highlighted a year’s worth of conservation wins, all made possible by a growing network of supporters who care deeply about this community.

About Big Waters Land Trust

Big Waters protects land and water for the good of both people and nature. They team up with individuals, organizations, and government partners to make sure everyone can enjoy clean water, fresh air, healthy food, and beautiful wild spaces. Their work helps the region stand strong against storms and floods, makes life better for everyone, and keeps our community safe for generations. You can learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.

The post Big Waters Land Trust Names 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year appeared first on Englewood Review.

In their 22-year history, Big Waters Land Trust has protected over 20,000 acres from South Tampa Bay to the Everglades. In Sarasota County, the land trust has saved over 9,000 acres with Sarasota County’s Land Acquisition Program. Longino Ranch represents over half of those acres. The Ranch is an integral part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor and the Myakka Island of conserved properties.

Longino Ranch is one of the most significant conservation projects in the county. Conserving it protects working lands, wildlife corridors, and thousands of acres of important habitat that also hold rainwater, preventing North Port from flooding. It also ensures that North Port has clean drinking water by not obstructing the flow of rainwater into the RV Griffin reservoir and the Myakkahatchee Creek.

Longino Ranch was conserved as part of a larger effort to create a continuous corridor of natural land, stretching from Arcadia to Sarasota, from the Peace River to the Myakka River. Working closely with the Longino family, Big Waters Land Trust helped establish conservation protections that safeguard the ranch’s beauty, cultural and historical significance, while honoring its rich ranching heritage.

“We are thrilled to bring Feast Upon the Fields to Longino Ranch,” comments Christine P. Johnson, president of Big Waters Land Trust. “Big Waters first worked with the Longino family in 2009 to conserve almost 4,000 acres of the ranch when we were Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program (ESLPP) acquisition agent. Then in 2024 at the family’s request, we helped them protect another 655 acres. We were honored to work with the family and Sarasota County both times to ensure this significant property continues to produce our food, safeguard our water, and provide a place for nature to thrive.”

Big Waters Land Trust served as Sarasota County’s ESLPP acquisition agent from 2006 to 2012. During that time, Big Waters’ land conservation expertise helped the County conserve iconic natural properties like the Longino and Walton Ranches and Old Miakka Preserve. In November 2026, Sarasota County voters will again be asked if they want to continue the important ESLP program. 

Experience this stunning landscape firsthand and enjoy a one-of-a-kind menu from Chef Paul Mattison at the tenth annual Feast Upon the Fields. Event proceeds support Big Waters’ vital mission to protect the land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Tickets and sponsorships are available now and going fast. Learn more and secure your seat at bigwaterslandtrust.org/feast26.

About Big Waters Land Trust

Big Waters protects land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Their vital work strengthens the region’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.

The post Feast Upon the Fields with Big Waters Land Trust appeared first on Englewood Review.