The National Conservation Foundation proudly recognized longtime conservation leader, John Redding of Georgia, with induction into the NCF-Envirothon Hall of Fame during the 2026 NCF-Envirothon annual competition, held this past July at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi.
The NCF-Envirothon Hall of Fame honors the remarkable contributions and commitment of individuals whose leadership and dedication have influenced, strengthened, and promoted the Envirothon program. Since 2005, 38 individuals have been inducted into the Envirothon Hall of Fame. Redding’s induction adds another distinction to a lifetime of service to conservation at the local, state, national, and international levels.
“I sincerely appreciate this honor more than you’ll ever know. My work in conservation was never just a job; it came from the love of my heart and the love of my land. I’ve always said, ‘I do what I do because of my Lucy,’” said Redding, referring to his granddaughter. “I know each of you has your own Lucy, too. Please continue this work and keep up the banner.”
Redding began his conservation leadership through the Walton County Conservation District, where he served as chair for 31 years. He later served the National Association of Conservation Districts in numerous leadership roles, including as president from 2008–2009. He has also served as a longtime leader with the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts and the National Conservation Foundation.
When he was the treasurer of the NCF Board of Trustees, Redding helped guide Envirothon through its transition to becoming an NCF program, supporting the creation of the NCF-Envirothon Operating Committee and the program manager role, which strengthened day-to-day operations. A former educator, Redding has long recognized Envirothon’s ability to shape students’ lives and has remained a strong advocate for the program in Georgia and across the country.
As a farmer and conservation advocate, Redding has put conservation into practice on his own Georgia farm, incorporating soil and water conservation into the production of cotton, peanuts, and timber. His decades of leadership, advocacy, and commitment to developing future conservation leaders reflect the lasting impact that the Envirothon Hall of Fame celebrates.
Congratulations to John Redding on this well-deserved recognition and his enduring legacy of conservation leadership.
