BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Charles Mueller, Chair
James Nolte, Vice Chair
Rob Moher, President and CEO
Nancy Anthony
Nick Batos
Stefan Bothe
Bill Byrnes
Ken Cole
Sheila Demkovich
Phil Douglas
Barry Frank
Leslie Frécon
Vanessa Gilvarg
Phil Gresh
Linda Grijalva
Bruce Groves
Judy Hushon
Kimberly Johnson
Terri Jump
Jon Kukk
Katrina Lundmark-Kash
Robin McClanathan
Paul Myerson
Nick Penniman
Ric Phillips
Nanette Rivera
Cedric Shaw
Penny Taylor
Dave Tolmie
John Walter
Tom Watkins
Roger Weston
Serving in whole or in part between October 1, 2024, and publication.
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. (800) HELP-FLA (435-7352), FDACS.gov. Registration number CH8300.
A TURNING POINT
Where do you see Southwest Florida 20, 30, 40 years from now? For us at the Conservancy, the vision is clear: a Southwest Florida where nature, wildlife, and people thrive together. That future depends on the choices we make today, and on a Conservancy strong enough to carry its mission forward.
This year marked a turning point. The historic $25 million grant from the John & Carol Walter Family Foundation, which launched our $70 million Now and Forever: Campaign to Protect our Quality of Life, ensures the Conservancy is better equipped to protect what makes this region distinctive, and also carry that mission of conservation forward with greater reach and impact, so our natural resources endure for generations to come.
Across our work, the impact is clear. In policy, we safeguarded federal oversight of wetlands and strengthened dialogue about how growth should shape our communities. In science, milestones such as a near-record sea turtle season, expanded mangrove restoration, and unprecedented python removal show progress on urgent challenges. Education inspired more than 35,000 participants, while the von Arx Wildlife Hospital met avian flu threats and still returned hundreds of animals to the wild. This year, the Conservancy not only upheld several previous winning titles, but also earned new honors in the Naples Community's Choice Awards, with the public voting us Best Nonprofit, Best Attraction, Best Fundraising Event for Magic Under the Mangroves, and Best Local Event for our Earth Day Festival.
These results reflect decades of persistence, proving that our long-term investment in science, policy, education, and wildlife care not only leads to measurable change for our environment, but also equips our community with the tools to protect it. Your support is what makes this work possible. Thank you for believing and investing in the Conservancy’s mission work.
This Annual Report reflects activities from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Rob Moher, President & CEO
Charles Mueller, Board Chair
JOHN & CAROL WALTER NATURE EXPERIENCE
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida announced a historic $25 million grant from the John & Carol Walter Family Foundation the largest gift in our 61-year history and one that stands out in environmental philanthropy. This extraordinary commitment is already transforming the Nature Center and its public amenities into the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience, set to open in early 2028.
In addition to the existing beloved nature center features, the reimagined public guest experience will feature new immersive habitats, traveling and interactive exhibits, family-friendly play-based learning, expanded areas for exploration, and new opportunities to engage in our mission work. Daily talks and changing theme-based programs will offer deeper engagement, while sustainable design— from a solar-topped parking garage to a new living filter marsh—will showcase nature-based and hybrid solutions in action.
Permanent endowments created by the Walters will ensure the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience will forever adapt with emerging science and community perspectives, inspiring visitors to see their own power to protect Southwest Florida’s natural habitats and ensure their resilience for future generations.
Stay informed, stay engaged, and share your ideas. conservancy.org/ natureexperience
NOW & FOREVER CAMPAIGN
This visionary investment in the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience serves as the seed for the Now & Forever Campaign: The Campaign to Protect Our Quality of Life. The campaign is chaired by board member H. Thomas Watkins, with John and Carol serving as honorary chairs. Launched in 2025, it is the Conservancy’s most ambitious effort ever, with a $70 million goal. More than half of that goal has already been secured, laying the groundwork to sustain the Conservancy’s vital science, environmental policy, education, and wildlife rehabilitation programs and the people who power them.
This campaign will create an endowment that secures one-third of our annual operating budget, ensuring long-term stability. The remaining two-thirds will rely on annual giving, memberships, major gifts, grants, admissions, and corporate partnerships, to deliver conservation results year after year. With the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience at its heart, the Now & Forever Campaign sustains the Conservancy’s commitment to protecting paradise.
THANK YOU TO THE NOW & FOREVER CAMPAIGN DONORS FOR THEIR GENEROSITY AND INITIATIVE
18220 Fund, Jennifer V. Cheng and Stefan R. Bothe, Mr. and Mrs. Lew and Dawn Allyn, William and Lisa Byrnes, Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. and Virginia A. Cornog, Leslie and Alain Frécon, Leonard C. and Mildred F. Ferguson Foundation, Gale R. Guild, Linda and Victor Grijalva, Mr. and Mrs. Bruce and Julie Groves, Dr. and Mr. Judith M. and John Hushon, Dr. Terri Jump, Mr. Kenneth D. Krier, The Ivan Bowen Family Foundation, The Martin Foundation, Mrs. Catherine C. Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Brian and Heidi Miller, Toni and Charlie Mueller, Paul A. Myerson and Giselle F. Wagner, James and Laura Nolte, Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas G. and Linda S. Penniman, Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas and Linda Batos, Ms. Penny Taylor, Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation, Inc., Ms. Doris M. Vohs, John & Carol Walter Family Foundation, Inc., Mr. and Mrs. H. Thomas and Wendy R. Watkins, Mr. and Mrs. Roger and Pamela Weston, Mr. and Mrs. Van Z. and Myra N.Williams, Vicky C. and David Byron Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred H. and Lynne W. Shotwell, and anonymous donors.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida welcomes Melissa Ringer as Chief Advancement Officer. With more than 20 years of local nonprofit leadership, Melissa now leads our development, marketing, and communications teams and oversees the Now & Forever Campaign. She’s a dedicated partner for our donors, guiding them in shaping lasting impact. As of publication, the Now & Forever Campaign has raised $44.8 million, achieving 64.1% of its $70 million goal.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: INSPIRING FUTURE STEWARDS
This year, Conservancy education programs reached more than 35,000 participants, connecting them to how Southwest Florida’s ecosystems shape daily life.
CHALLENGE:
Many children and adults rarely experience wetlands, mangroves, or native wildlife firsthand. Without these encounters, it becomes harder to see how clean water, resilient coastlines, and healthy habitats connect to our personal life, especially for newer residents and visitors unfamiliar with the region’s natural treasures.
ACTION:
Our Education team brought science to life through field trips, summer programs, and community outreach. Intentional effort was put into collaborating with local schools and removing barriers to have the Watery Wonders program at full capacity, giving even more students the chance to see how freshwater ecosystems support wildlife and people. The Learning Adventure Bus (LAB) doubled its reach through new relationships with five community partners, expanding access to STEM education. To keep lessons fresh, we introduced new curriculum modules. From alligators and burrowing owls to pythons, pollinators, and sea turtles, every audience found a connection to conservation.
IMPACT:
We increased the number of people learning about conservation in Southwest Florida by 94% compared to last year!
Participants surveyed gained 30% more knowledge through tours, community events, and hands-on exhibits at the Dalton Discovery Center and John & Carol Walter Discovery Wing. More than 75% pledged stewardship to protect Southwest Florida’s natural resources after learning from Conservancy educators.
PUBLIC PROGRAMS
8,094
Total participants at scheduled talks
1,929
Total participants in guided Nature Center Tours
SCHOOL PROGRAMS & OUTREACH
Total students educated on school field trips
2,448
Total participants at public program events
Total children attending Summer Camp
1,930 94% increase in total people educated 2024 2025
124 9,608
Total children and adults reached with the Learning Adventure Bus (LAB)
11,107
Total outreach for children and adults at community events
35,240 18,140
NATURE CENTER: FRESH FACES AND SPACES
24,130 VISITORS
16,305 VISITORS
The Nature Center experienced a year full of fresh faces and exciting upgrades, including 879 new members. We welcomed Donatella, a gopher tortoise from Zoo Miami, who has already become a Conservancy celebrity, with her custom outdoor enclosure and cart to greet visitors. Our python exhibit got a glow-up with new plantings, a behind-the-scenes feeding den, and the successful pairing of Oracle, our 11-foot male, with Stitch, our 13-foot resident—they’ve settled in perfectly together. Eastern Indigo snake, Bindi, now lounges among new palmetto trees, and Muffin the diamondback terrapin has a brand-new 300+ gallon tank on exhibit. Muffin has already made a big impression on visiting students.
“My absolute favorite part was when we met Muffin. Also, I learned SO MUCH!” –Melyssa, 3rd grade
2024 2025 48% increase in visitors to the Dalton Discovery Center and John & Carol Walter Discovery Wing
Partially includes school groups
1,353 participants on the Good Fortune II eco-cruises
“My family became members this weekend and really enjoyed our visit to the Conservancy. What really stood out to me, the electric boat ride with Captain Sam Savage. His knowledge of the invasive plants, animals, and how they affect our environment made the experience incredible and so fascinating.” –Will and Sarah L., Naples, FL
15,198 people cruised on our electric boats
SEA TURTLES: A NEAR-RECORD SEASON
558 nests
38,179 hatchlings
Numbers as of publication.
“Thank you for saving the sea turtles ” –Sissy S. on Facebook
This summer, Keewaydin Island had the second strongest sea turtle nesting season in more than four decades.
CHALLENGE:
Storms, predators, and rising seas often threaten nests before hatchlings reach the water. Even in strong years, one surge can wash away months of progress.
ACTION:
Our turtle team of three biologists and seven interns caged and inventoried the nests and monitored the adult nesting females at night. With storms holding off and predation low, the season is thriving. Our new Turtle Dashboard lets the community follow updates in real time.
IMPACT:
This year’s nest numbers are the second-highest on Keewaydin Island since monitoring began in 1983, with hatchling totals more than double last year, and the season isn’t over yet. Every tiny turtle racing to the sea represents decades of science, protection, and persistence.
View live sea turtle data at conservancy.org/seaturtledashboard.
MANGROVES: FRONTLINE DEFENDERS
Mangroves shield coastal neighborhoods, but Southwest Florida’s forests are under siege.
CHALLENGE:
Sea level rise, altered hydrology, and development have left once-thriving mangrove forests at Clam Bay and Goodland Fruit Farm Creek fragmented and vulnerable.
ACTION:
Our biologists assessed 300 more mangrove trees than last year, across permanent monitoring plots, tracking forest health and stressors like altered hydrology and storms. Restoration work can breathe strength back into fragile habitats, rebuilding resilience to abate storms and rising seas.
IMPACT:
This year’s efforts safeguarded coastal assets, buffered storms, and sheltered wildlife, keeping communities resilient. In 2025, Biologist Kathy Worley marked 30 years of mangrove research at the Conservancy, shaping restoration, informing policy, and laying the scientific foundation to protect these vital ecosystems in our area.
7,961 mangroves monitored
PYTHONS: A 20-TON MILESTONE
6,549 pounds removed 2,945 developing eggs removed
The Conservancy’s python program reached an unprecedented milestone: more than 20 tons of invasive Burmese pythons removed since 2013.
CHALLENGE:
These apex predators decimate native species, consuming everything from rabbits to deer. It disrupts the balance of wildlife that shapes our own backyards, neighborhoods, and the natural character of Southwest Florida.
ACTION:
Staff biologists and interns tracked 40 scout snakes across 250 square miles to remove breeding females. This hands-on effort builds on years of research and
National Geographic joined the Conservancy’s python team in the field, highlighting our scientists’ years of research on the invasive snakes. The documentary, Python Invasion, will air on the Nat Geo Wild channel in late 2025.
removal, culminating in a record-breaking removal season for the Conservancy.
IMPACT:
Carried out on the backs of the python team, the Conservancy surpassed a major milestone in 2025. More than 20 tons of Burmese python removed, capped by a record season of 6,549 pounds! The Conservancy’s python program has collaborated with various universities, federal agencies, and the Naples Zoo to publish 25 scientific research articles to date, including the most recent, investigating reproductive output, adult survivorship, and the python’s impact on seed dispersal.
“So glad you are finding and removing them so wildlife can flourish.” –Elizabeth W. from Facebook
POLICY FRONT LINES: DEFENDING WETLANDS, WILDLIFE, AND OUR WAY OF LIFE
This year, the Conservancy’s Policy team stood guard where decisions about water, land, and wildlife shaped the future of Southwest Florida.
CHALLENGES:
Our wetlands and wildlife face mounting pressures. The state attempted to weaken federal Clean Water Act protections, mega-developments threatened panther habitat and wetlands, and Florida approved a controversial black bear hunt. The risks for us: more flooding, more traffic, and fewer natural resources that make our region livable and irreplaceable.
ACTION:
We’ve strengthened our water policy team by adding Senior Water Policy Advisor Tammy Ash and Water Policy Specialist Savanna Neb ensuring we’re fully staffed and ready to tackle the region’s toughest water challenges. The Conservancy and partners continue to defend the court victory that returned Clean Water Act wetland permitting to federal agencies, now under appeal. The Policy team filed comments, provided analysis, and mobilized 7,354 residents through action alerts that went directly to government decision-makers, opposing sprawling projects like Bellmar, Rural Lands West, and Kingston. When the state advanced a bear hunt, our staff addressed the Wildlife Commission, building on years of advocacy for conflict-reduction through trash ordinances and wildlife corridors.
IMPACT:
Wetlands and the wildlife they support require review through our foundational federal laws. Furthermore, we are strengthening the dialogue between residents and decisionmakers about community growth, so the public understands the impact future proposed developments will have on our quality of life and our vital natural resources. While the bear hunt was approved, our advocacy keeps a spotlight on accountability and the need for wildlife management rooted in evidence and science.
A total of 8,243 people signed Policy Action Alerts on key issues, voicing concerns to government decisionmakers.
FROM SYMPOSIUM TO SOLUTIONS
The Conservancy’s Working with Nature: Nature-Based and Hybrid Solutions for Resilient Communities symposium brought community stakeholders, elected officials, and agency staff together. The goal: to explore and share nature-based strategies that safeguard our community, protect our environment, and strengthen climate resiliency. From the event came a living library of case studies to help communities learn about more innovative projects with clear insights on cost, resources, and lessons learned.
“Amber and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Policy team- thanks for your persistent work on behalf of the Florida black bear population! I love that the Conservancy doesn’t just oppose bad policies/practices, it proactively proposes alternate approaches that better address underlying issues.”
–George L., Naples
FACTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Through a settlement agreement for Rivergrass Village, the Conservancy secured a conservation easement protecting 655 acres of primary panther habitat, permanently safeguarding a vital wildlife corridor linking Golden Gate Estates and the Panther Refuge.
The Policy team launched two interactive tools—the Wetlands Story Map and Panther Dashboard—to put facts directly in the public’s hands. These resources allow residents to see data for themselves, understand the stakes, and stay informed about the challenges and protections shaping Southwest Florida’s most vulnerable habitats and species.
1,734 Birds
1,473 Mammals 250 Reptiles
At the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, 3,457 injured, orphaned, or sick animals came through our doors this year as vehicle collisions, habitat loss, and disease persistently endanger native wildlife.
CHALLENGE:
In 2025, the avian flu added an alarming new challenge, devastating bird populations and raising concerns for wildlife and caregivers alike.
ACTION:
Our wildlife hospital team responded immediately with strict biosecurity protocols, protective equipment, and enhanced intake procedures. Staff trained to recognize symptoms early, and testing was increased on high-risk species, while volunteers adjusted daily routines to safeguard both animals and people.
IMPACT:
Thanks to measures quickly put in place, not a single case of avian flu spread to other patients at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital. From raptors to backyard songbirds, each continues to receive lifesaving care without interruption. Over the decades, the Conservancy has rehabilitated and released tens of thousands of animals back into their natural habitats.
THREE DONORS, FIVE PARTNERS, ONE BOBCAT—WILD AGAIN
When a bobcat was struck by a car in Bonita Springs, a Conservancy supporter rushed it to von Arx Wildlife Hospital. Our veterinarian, Dr. Kendall Carlin, worked with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission vet to come up with a treatment plan, while Arthrex supplied the metal plate to repair its forelimb. BluePearl’s surgical team performed the operation and reconstructed its paw so it could hunt again. South Florida Wildlife Center provided postoperative rehabilitation, and our staff arranged the collaboration with all partners upon the bobcat’s arrival at von Arx Wildlife Hospital. Three generous donors funded the procedure. Weeks later, the bobcat returned to the wild— strong, whole, and home again.
SAVING BATS, STRENGTHENING OUR ECOSYSTEM
When a bat colony fell from a tree, the Conservancy’s wildlife rehabilitation team responded immediately. Once staff arrived on site, they examined each pup carefully, 156 total. This ensured that there were no major injuries and that each one was healthy enough to return to the wild. With the help of a local tree service, the team safely renested the bats, reuniting them with their colony. Bats play a vital role in nature, acting as pest control, eating up to 1,000 mosquitoes an hour, and helping pollinate plants. This rescue was more than a success story; it strengthened the ecosystem.
This year, the von Arx Wildlife Hospital welcomed rare and remarkable patients— including the fourth-ever short-tailed hawk admitted as a patient.
MAGIC UNDER THE MANGROVES 2025
Voted Best Fundraiser in Naples in the Community's Choice Awards for the second year in a row, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s 2025 Magic Under the Mangroves Gala raised more than $1.7 million to support environmental science, policy, education, and wildlife programs. The March 6 event in Naples drew 450 guests and featured an auction led by Lydia Fenet, highlighted by a record $100,000 winning bid for a voyage aboard MS The World—the highest auction bid in the Conservancy's history. Guests enjoyed RitzCarlton cuisine and performances by Lovebirds Music, opera singer Peter Lake, and country artist Kurt Stevens.
Since 2004, the gala has raised more than $23 million. The 2025 event was co-chaired by Toni and Charlie Mueller and Linda and Victor Grijalva, with Northern Trust as Presenting Sponsor. The Grijalvas will return as chairs in 2026 with Vanessa and Martin Gilvarg.
REDSNOOK CATCH & RELEASE CHARITY FISHING TOURNAMENT 2024
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s 2024
RedSnook Catch and Release Charity Fishing Tournament, held October 25–27, raised nearly $210,000 to protect Southwest Florida’s waters. Fifty-five teams and 140 anglers launched from Naples, Goodland, and Chokoloskee, with events including a Kick-off Celebration at the Conservancy and the Chris Campbell Awards Reception at Northern Trust. Proceeds support vital research and advocacy, including the 2024 report Impacts of Water Quality on the Southwest Florida Economy, which underscores the link between clean water and the region’s prosperity.
EARTH DAY FESTIVAL 2025
The Conservancy’s 2025 Earth Day Festival was voted Naples’ Best Local Event in the Community's Choice Awards for the first time and drew the second-largest crowd in its history, with 2,007 attendees. Families enjoyed hands-on activities with Mr. Glen's Super Science Show, wildlife encounters from Conservancy educators, and community partnerships that inspired action to protect Southwest Florida’s natural treasures.
ANNUAL MEETING 2025
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida welcomed nearly 130 board members, donors, officials, and community leaders to its Annual Member Meeting on January 15. President and CEO Rob Moher announced the transformational grant for the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience, followed by remarks from John Walter on behalf of the family foundation. The evening concluded with a sunset reception on the Lutgert Deck, complete with a champagne toast to celebrate the occasion.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s Eagle Award, its highest honor, recognizes exemplary leadership in environmental protection, philanthropy, and advocacy. In 2025, it was presented to The Martin Foundation for its longstanding commitment to protecting the region’s land, water, wildlife, and future. Established in 1953 by Geraldine and Lee Martin, the foundation has long championed conservation in Southwest Florida. The Conservancy is grateful for its decades of partnership and dedication to sustainability.
VOLUNTEERS
27,187 hours dedicated, valued at $945,836
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida honored the dedication of more than 700 active volunteers at its annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, hosted and sponsored by Vi at Bentley Village. Together, volunteers gifted the Conservancy 27,187 hours of their time over the past year. Their passion, expertise, and commitment embody the heart of the Conservancy and strengthen it in every way, reminding us that without them, our mission simply wouldn’t be possible.
Special recognition was given to Bruce Robertson, named Volunteer of the Year for his two decades of service and over 3,100 hours at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital. His skilled craftsmanship has supported animal care, reduced costs, and enhanced operations across the campus. The Conservancy also recognized milestone anniversaries, service hour achievements, and the vital role of Connection Officers.
EXPENSES INCOME
Admin: $1,521,637
Special Events: $1,340,338
Development:
$1,209,793
Education & Guest Services:
$1,997,167
Policy: $1,371,649
Wildlife Rehabilitation: $1,737,644
Science: $1,601,921
Memberships & Leadership Circle: $849,035
FY2025 revenue and expenses are unaudited as of publication.
GRANTS
Contributions: $3,174,155
Special Events: $2,923,538 Endowment Draw: $2,305,684
Other: $795,538
Programmatic Revenue: $237,737 Grants: $494,461
This year, grant support played a vital role in advancing the Conservancy’s mission—from funding new eye examination equipment for the von Arx Wildlife Hospital to supporting school field trips that inspire the next generation of conservationists. Generous grants also made it possible to recruit and retain key staff in a competitive marketplace, allowing us to make an even greater impact across Southwest Florida.
Andrew R. and Janet F. Miller Foundation
Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation
Carol B. Phelon Foundation
Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation
Fleming Family Foundation
The Ivan Bowen Family Foundation
Knopf Family Foundation
Leonard C. and Mildred F. Ferguson Foundation
The Martin Foundation, Inc.
Mary Reinhart Stackhouse Foundation
Naples Zoo
Naples Children Foundation
NextEra Energy Foundation
Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation
Saldukas Family Foundation
Sidney A. Swensrud Foundation
Stranahan Foundation
Top Family Foundation
Van Otterloo Family Foundation
Our donor honor roll recognizes and celebrates the generous individuals, organizations, and partners whose contributions make our mission possible. Paradise is fragile, and because of you, it endures. Thank you for understanding what’s at stake and answering the call to protect Southwest Florida’s natural treasures. Your support powers everything we do—from restoring water quality and inspiring young minds through STEM, to healing injured wildlife and advancing science and policy for a stronger, more resilient future.
We would like to thank these groups, whose collective generosity from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, strengthens our mission each day. Together, we protect nature so it can continue to protect us—for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.
conservancy.org /donorhonorroll
UPCOMING EVENTS
Annual Member Meeting
January 13, 2026
Conservancy Nature Center
Magic Under the Mangroves
March 5, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Tiburón
Earth Day Festival
April 18, 2026
Conservancy Nature Center
Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast
April 27, 2026
Vi at Bentley Village
John & Carol Walter Nature Experience Groundbreaking
TBD
Conservancy Nature Center
Learn more at conservancy.org/annual-events.
conservancy.org /support-us
Our work is made possible through the generosity of individuals like you who value Southwest Florida’s natural resources and quality of life. By becoming a member, you will receive complimentary admission to our Nature Center, along with discounts and benefits at more than 1,400 centers nationwide. You may also choose to volunteer, learning new skills and sharing your expertise. Your contributions directly support our vital mission work, and your voice can make a difference by engaging with decision-makers on key policy issues. SUPPORT US
