Friends of Big Cypress National Preserve: A New Nonprofit

Over 20 years ago, renowned landscape photographer Clyde Butcher set out to protect the very muse that brought him fame. However, fame was far from what he was looking for; he’d rather share the bountiful harmony of Florida’s wilderness that brought him peace of mind. Butcher believed there was a way to advocate for Big Cypress beyond his signature black and white photos. An idea was formed, a website was made, but trials and tribulations blocked the vision from coming to full fruition.  

With help from his daughter Jackie Obendorf, longtime friend and collaborator Susan Jones, and philanthropist Sheila Harris-Schutz, Clyde’s prospects finally came to life. Friends of Big Cypress National Preserve officially partnered with the National Park Service and Big Cypress in May 2025,marking the continued reverence for one of Florida’s most important wild spaces.  

“Big Cypress is a hidden gem,” Jones said. “It’s the wild backyard of Collier County, yet so many people here don’t even know it exists.” 

Spanning over 700,000 acres - roughly the size of Rhode Island - Big Cypress is home to freshwater swamps, endangered panthers, ghost orchids, and some of the clearest water Jones says she’s ever seen. Despite its ecological value and accessibility from Naples, it receives far less attention and funding than its more famous neighbor, Everglades National Park. 

“There’s this misconception that national parks are fully funded by the government,” Jones explained. “But the reality is, most rely heavily on their nonprofit partners.” 

For years, Big Cypress lacked such a support group. That gap left critical education programs, invasive species management, and even trail maintenance underfunded.  

The nonprofit raises funds to support programs that federal budgets can’t always cover, from critical habitat restoration projects to school-based environmental learning. Their efforts also aim to increase public awareness about the importance of Big Cypress, encouraging deeper appreciation and stewardship among residents and visitors alike. 

The three founding women, with support from Clyde and a small but growing board, handled everything from filing articles of incorporation to building an upgraded website. Most administrative costs have been covered out-of-pocket by board members, underscoring the labor of love behind the effort. 

At its core, Friends of Big Cypress National Preserve exists to uplift and support the preserve's mission through fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement. The organization works hand-in-hand with the National Park Service to enhance visitor experience, expand environmental education, and protect the land and its inhabitants. 

“People think swamps are dark and dirty, but Big Cypress is stunning. Once you see it up close, you realize what a treasure it is,” said Jones. 

Despite its proximity to Naples and critical role in regional resilience, Big Cypress has long been overshadowed by more famous parks. Many people don’t realize that its freshwater wetlands nourish the Everglades to the south and replenish the Biscayne Aquifer, the source of drinking water for millions. In fact, Big Cypress plays a crucial role in filtering and storing water, regulating seasonal flows, and protecting against saltwater intrusion. 

“This beautiful place exists, and even if you don’t enjoy it, you should understand the importance of it,” said Jones. 

Beyond dollars and logistics, Friends of Big Cypress is about connection between people and place, science and storytelling, and generations past and future. Through events, outreach, and volunteerism, the nonprofit offers meaningful ways for individuals to contribute to the long-term protection of one of Florida’s last wild frontiers. 

Their first major fundraising and awareness event, Swamp Wander, is set for Saturday, November 1, at the Big Cypress Gallery. Hosted in partnership with the Butcher family, the event offers guests a rare opportunity to explore Clyde and Niki’s private 13-acre property behind the gallery. 

Attendees can enjoy stunning photography, meet local artists, and participate in interactive educational stations led by rangers, biologists, and volunteers. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP tickets grant access to Clyde’s air-conditioned swamp cottage, a guided swamp walk, and exclusive gifts, all benefiting the preserve’s education programs. 

Tickets are only required for the Guided Swamp Walk Tours. Choose a gentle Shallow Walk, an adventurous Deep Walk, or the VIP Experience, which includes access to Clyde’s private air-conditioned swamp cottage, a guided walk, and exclusive gifts.  

Proceeds will help fund the beloved Swamp Water And Me Program, which brings every sixth grader in Collier County out to the preserve for hands-on science education. 

“If you get sixth graders out there, you kind of get them for life,” Jones said. “They’ll never forget walking through that pristine water.” 

For tickets, visit friendsofbigcypress.org or call 239-695-2428. 

Currently run entirely by volunteers, Friends of Big Cypress is actively seeking new board members, especially those with diverse skills and a passion for conservation. Jones envisions building an endowment to protect core programs into perpetuity and eventually hiring staff to manage operations. 

As Clyde said best, “Through my photography, I have spent decades capturing the soul of Big Cypress, hoping to inspire a love and respect for this hidden gem. As the wild backyard of Collier County, Big Cypress remains a treasure that many have yet to discover. Friends of Big Cypress is dedicated to changing that…” 

How to Get Involved 

From guided swamp walks to future fundraisers, Friends of Big Cypress offers plenty of opportunities to support their mission. 

To learn more, donate, or inquire about board service, visit friendsofbigcypress.org or email info@friendsofbigcypress.org.