TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced Ernie Barnett as the recipient of the 2026 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. The Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award has been presented annually since 1994 and spotlights environmentally innovative growers and ranchers who share a commitment to protecting and preserving Florida’s resources while continuing to produce the world-class agricultural goods we rely on.
“Ernie Barnett has spent more than 35 years in the trenches working on Florida’s toughest land and water issues, and his impact speaks for itself,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Whether it’s his work on Everglades restoration or his service supporting producers across the state, Ernie has always taken a practical approach that benefits both our natural resources and Florida agriculture. It is my honor to recognize him as this year’s Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award recipient.”
Ernie Barnett
Ernie Barnett currently serves as the Executive Director of the Florida Land Council. Barnett has extensive experience in water resource management and public service, contributing to landmark environmental laws including the Lake Okeechobee Protection Act, the Everglades Restoration Investment Act, and the Water Resources Development Act of 2000. He has served as a policy and technical leader in Everglades restoration for more than two decades and directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Ecosystem Management program, which received national recognition. Barnett was also recognized with the 2001 National Wetlands award for Outstanding Wetlands Program Development. Through his service on the Florida Land Council, he has supported Florida’s agricultural producers by advancing science-based policies that ensure agricultural practices remain sustainable and beneficial to the state’s natural resources.
Ernie Barnett will be recognized by Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson at the Fresh From Florida Breakfast in October at the Florida Farm Bureau annual meeting.
Visit FDACS’ Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award webpage for more information about the award, including past winners.
For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.
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