Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has named Ernie Barnett the winner of the 2026 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award, recognizing a career defined by more than 35 years of navigating the state’s most complex land and water challenges.
Since 1994, this annual award has spotlighted agricultural leaders who successfully balance large-scale production with the preservation of Florida’s natural resources. Barnett, who currently serves as the Executive Director of the Florida Land Council, has been a central figure in shaping the state’s environmental policy landscape.
His fingerprints are on several landmark pieces of legislation, including the Lake Okeechobee Protection Act, the Everglades Restoration Investment Act, and the federal Water Resources Development Act of 2000.
“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,” Commissioner Wilton Simpson said. “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.”
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Barnett’s professional history includes leading the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Ecosystem Management program, an initiative that garnered national attention for its effectiveness. His efforts in wetland preservation previously earned him the 2001 National Wetlands award for Outstanding Wetlands Program Development.
In his current role with the Florida Land Council, Barnett focuses on science-based policies designed to keep the state’s agricultural industry sustainable. By bridging the gap between technical environmental needs and the practicalities of farming and ranching, he has helped ensure that Florida’s food production remains compatible with its unique ecosystems.
The formal recognition ceremony is scheduled for October. Commissioner Simpson will present the award to Barnett during the Fresh From Florida Breakfast, held as part of the Florida Farm Bureau annual meeting.
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