The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast has announced the permanent protection of the 29-acre Felts Audubon Preserve in Manatee County. The public preserve is known for its walking trails and bird-watching opportunities throughout the scenic, park-like bird sanctuary.  The owners, Manatee County Audubon Society (MCAS), committed to placing a permanent conservation easement on the land, fulfilling the dream of original landowners, Otis and Anita Felts, who hoped the land would never be developed. The Conservation Foundation worked with Manatee County Audubon Society and the community to raise $50,000 in order to protect this property in perpetuity.