OSPREY, FL (December 22, 2025) Big Waters Land Trust, formerly known as Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, recently honored Ann Van Cott as its 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year in recognition of her philanthropy and leadership in protecting land and water. The honoree was recognized at the organization’s Annual Conservation Celebration.

OSPREY, FL (December 22, 2025) Big Waters Land Trust, formerly known as Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, recently honored Ann Van Cott as its 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year in recognition of her philanthropy and leadership in protecting land and water. The honoree was recognized at the organization’s Annual Conservation Celebration. “We consider ourselves very fortunate to have such a supportive and passionate conservation community,” said Christine Johnson, President of Big Waters Land Trust. “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 received recognition as the 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year for her outstanding and longstanding commitment to conservation. She created the Natural Heritage Fund that over many decades provided funding to enhance conserved lands with nature trails, kayak launches, picnic tables, educational signage, and other amenities that allow people to enjoy and connect with nature. A passionate conservationist, Ann spent decades connecting people to Florida’s natural landscapes through her vision, leadership, and generosity. Her impact can be seen across many Big Waters Land Trust conservation projects, including Orange Hammock Ranch, Red Bug Slough, and the Rewilding the Quad Parcels at the Celery Fields. Ann’s philanthropy and leadership not only strengthened Big Waters Land Trust’s efforts to save land and water, but also inspired greater community involvement—drawing more people and organizations into the conservation movement and helping the region thrive for generations to come. The Annual Conservation Celebration was held at Big Waters Land Trust’s Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey. In addition to recognizing the Conservation Partner of the Year, the event also celebrated the organization’s annual achievements made possible through the support of its growing conservation community. 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 Big Waters Land Trust honors 2025 Conservation Partner of the Year appeared first on Big Waters Land Trust.