Big Cypress
This October, the community is invited to participate in a unique and meaningful event that combines the beauty of art with the wonders of nature, all while supporting a vital cause. The Big Cypress Gallery will host a day filled with activities, inspiration, and opportunities to give back to the community.
Celebrating 50 Years of Big Cypress National Preserve
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Big Cypress National Preserve, highlighting the importance of protecting and preserving our natural heritage. To commemorate this significant occasion, a special fundraising event will be held, aimed at raising money for the park’s Education Department.
This effort will ensure that future generations continue to learn about and appreciate this incredible ecosystem.
Meet Clyde Butcher and Explore the Preserve
A highlight of the event is the opportunity to meet renowned photographer Clyde Butcher and his wife, Niki Butcher, in person. Their breathtaking images have captured the essence of Florida’s landscapes, and now attendees can experience the inspiration behind their work firsthand.
In addition to meeting the Butchers, guests will have the chance to engage with National Park Rangers, who will be hosting educational booths. These booths will offer insights into the preserve’s diverse wildlife and habitats, providing a deeper understanding of the crucial conservation efforts.
Choose Your Adventure
The event offers a variety of activities for all ages, including guided swamp walks led by the Alliance for Florida’s National Parks. These walks allow participants to explore the same landscapes that inspire Clyde’s art, immersing themselves in the pristine beauty of the cypress swamp.
Support S.W.A.M.P.: The Swamp Water and Me Program
By attending this event, participants will be directly supporting the S.W.A.M.P. program—an innovative educational initiative that engages 6th-grade students from Collier County Public and Private Schools. Through this program, students become “S.W.A.M.P. Scientists” for a day, exploring three distinct habitats within the preserve. They conduct field experiments, gather data, and learn about the importance of environmental stewardship. Participation in this event helps ensure that this valuable program continues to inspire and educate the next generation.
Food, Fun, and Giving Back
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 19th, and join the community at the Big Cypress Gallery for a day of art, nature, and giving back. Together, participants can celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Big Cypress National Preserve and ensure its protection for years to come. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the park’s Education Department, helping to preserve this remarkable ecosystem and educate future generations.
Tickets are available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/swamp-celebration-2024-tickets-925789400017
