Feast Upon the Fields connects patrons with the nature they protect

Sitting underneath majestic live oaks in a grassy field at the Myakka Headwaters Preserve, more than 300 people gathered to show their appreciation for nature and raise funds to preserve as much of it as possible.

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast’s Feast Upon the Fields fundraiser Dec. 3 raised more than $200,000 to help the nonprofit fulfill its mission of preserving Southwest Florida’s land and water for future generations.

Chef Paul Mattison catered the luncheon, which included fresh produce donated by Worden Farm, as well as honey from the bees onsite at the preserve. Guests took a small bottle of this treat home with them as a sweet thank you.

In addition to learning more about the Conservation Foundation’s goals and successes, guests had the opportunity to take a 15-minute hike through the pop ash forest to see where the Myakka River begins.