Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Description
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is an environmental organization protecting the water, land, wildlife and future of a five-county region in Florida.
It was founded in 1964 by a small group of citizens who stopped a road from being built through Rookery Bay. Since then it has grown from an advocacy and land preservation group into an organization covering science, policy, education and wildlife rehabilitation. It focuses on Collier, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry and Glades counties in Southwest Florida.
The organization works through four teams. Its science and research team studies wildlife populations and the biological communities they depend on. Its policy and advocacy team works with regional leaders so decisions about growth and land use are informed by science. Its environmental education team teaches people of all ages about the Southwest Florida environment. Its von Arx Wildlife Hospital treats thousands of injured, sick and orphaned native animals each year, releasing many back into the wild once they recover.
Latest news
Florida’s waterbodies and unique wetlands are incredibly valuable resources, and these ecosystems deserve all of the protections afforded by federal laws like the Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately, a proposed national…
24 Sep 2026
Sabal Palm Road Development Approved for a Private Golf Course
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has a long history in protecting the lands within and around the Picayune Strand State Forest (also known as Southern Golden Gate Estates and Belle…
23 Sep 2026
Protect Picayune Strand from Incompatible Development – Say No to Sabal Palm
Did you know that Collier County is home to a state forest located just one mile east of CR951? It’s the Picayune Strand State Forest, the fourth largest state forest…
17 Sep 2026
Conservancy of Southwest Florida announces 2026 RedSnook Catch & Release Charity Fishing Tournament
Every cast helps protect the waters that fuel Southwest Florida’s fishing heritage, local businesses, and coastal economy The Conservancy of Southwest Florida will host the 2026 RedSnook Catch & Release…
17 Sep 2026
A win for community voices in Lee County
Thank you, Lee County Commissioners! We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Lee County Commissioners for their thoughtful discussion and decision to slow down the comprehensive planning process…
17 Sep 2026
Density Reduction Groundwater Resource Comprehensive Plan Changes in Lee County
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida are providing comments on the proposed changes to the Southeast Lee County portion of the Lee comprehensive plan. SCCF…
17 Sep 2026
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