Preserving Land for Scientific Inquiry
Safeguarding critical sites for research, conservation, and education.
The Braden River Islands
Securing historically significant landscapes for ongoing research and education.
The Toomey Foundation owns 80 acres of islands located at the junction of the Braden and Manatee Rivers in Manatee County, Florida. This region is adjacent to the historic Braden Castle — a local archeological site of early Florida settlers and native tribes.
These lands are protected to support future research and educational efforts in archeology, environmental science, and cultural heritage.
Preserving Land. Advancing Knowledge.
The Toomey Foundation supports the protection of ecologically and scientifically significant land. Through responsible stewardship, we ensure these areas remain accessible for research, discovery, and education for years to come.
Why We Protect Land
Land preservation ensures that sites of scientific and historical importance are protected from development, degradation, or loss. By conserving these areas, we enable responsible field research, long-term observation, and educational opportunities for future generations.
Scientific Access & Stewardship
The Braden River Islands may be made available to researchers conducting studies aligned with the Foundation’s mission. Access is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Interested applicants should contact us to inquire about eligibility and permitted use.
“Religion explains why things happen, science explains how things happen.”
Author Unknown
Interested in Applying?
If your research or education aligns with our mission in Archeology, Astronomy, or Paleontology, we welcome your proposal for consideration.