Big Waters Land Trust Honors Ann Van Cott as 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year

OSPREY, FL – Big Waters Land Trust, formerly known as Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, recently recognized Ann Van Cott as its 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year. The honor was bestowed in recognition of her significant philanthropy and leadership in protecting local land and water resources.

The award was presented at the organization’s Annual Conservation Celebration, held at Big Waters Land Trust’s Bay Preserve headquarters, overlooking Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, on December 22, 2025. The event also highlighted the organization's annual achievements, made possible by its growing conservation community.

Christine Johnson, President of Big Waters Land Trust, expressed gratitude for Van Cott’s contributions. “We consider ourselves very fortunate to have such a supportive and passionate conservation community,” Johnson stated. “It is because of people like Ann Van Cott that we are able to have such significant regional impact. We are incredibly grateful for her continued commitment to conservation and for her generosity of both time and resources.”

Ann Van Cott was specifically recognized for her outstanding and longstanding commitment to conservation. She is credited with creating the Natural Heritage Fund, which has, over many decades, provided crucial funding to enhance conserved lands. This funding has supported the development of nature trails, kayak launches, picnic tables, educational signage, and other amenities that allow residents and visitors to enjoy and connect with nature.

A passionate conservationist, Van Cott has spent decades working to connect people to Florida’s natural landscapes through her vision, leadership, and generosity. Her impact is evident across numerous Big Waters Land Trust conservation projects, including Orange Hammock Ranch, Red Bug Slough, and the Rewilding the Quad Parcels at the Celery Fields.

Her philanthropy and leadership have not only strengthened Big Waters Land Trust’s efforts to save land and water but have also inspired greater community involvement, drawing more people and organizations into the conservation movement and helping the region thrive for generations to come.

Big Waters Land Trust works to protect land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they aim to ensure access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, and natural areas. Their work is vital in strengthening the region’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriching lives, and safeguarding the community.