Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is the “go-to” organization in the region and beyond for land conservation insight, strategy, and action. As a nationally accredited land conservancy, the Foundation works to protect critical lands that safeguard and improve water quality, preserve high-quality natural habitats, and protect working rural lands which exemplify the natural and cultural character of our region.

Meet the department directors who manage the energy and creative talent of Conservation Foundation’s outward reach:

Debi Osborne, Director of Land Protection, joined Conservation Foundation in 2013 as the point person for landowner conservation projects and land protection strategy. She has over 30 years of experience including eight years as Director of Real Estate for the National Audubon Society and 17 years with the Trust for Public Land. Debi serves as co-chair for the Coastal and Heartland National Estuary Partnership Citizen Advisory Committee.

Lee Ann Rodriguez, Director of Philanthropy, has over 20 years of combined experience across the private, higher education, government and not-for-profit sectors with expertise in resource development, including fund raising and grant writing. In 2013, Lee Ann received the Citizen Science Champion of Change recognition from the Executive Office of the President of the United States.

Suzanne Gregory, Director of Programs & Marketing, joined Conservation Foundation in 2012, and has a 30-plus year history in the not-for-profit and government sectors. Her successes include designing and facilitating community engagement initiatives, directing communications strategies, managing events of all sizes, and bringing new donors and volunteers to the organization.

ACHIEVEMENTS

• Permanently protected more than 18,000 acres throughout Southwest Florida.
• Saved the magnificent 5,777-acre Orange Hammock Ranch in Sarasota County, which protects the region’s water supply, rare habitat and species, and will have public access.
• Collaborates with national partners to protect and restore marshlands in the Myakka River watershed, to reduce flooding and provide habitat for wildlife.
• Provides more than 1,000 outdoor youth experiences each year.
• Distinguished as a nationally accredited land trust, upholding the public’s confidence in the permanence of conservation.

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast
400 PALMETTO AVE., OSPREY, FL 34229
(941) 918-2100
CONSERVATIONFOUNDATION.COM