News Release:
EPA Brings Together New Wave of Conservation Leaders to Make America Beautiful Again
September 14, 2026
Contact Information
EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov)
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced 10 new members of the National Environmental Education Advisory Council (NEEAC), assembling a dynamic group of educators, conservationists, outdoorsmen, state leaders, nonprofit advocates, and noted experts to help inspire a new generation of responsible environmental stewards who want to Make America Beautiful Again.
Keith Mark of Hunter Nation has been appointed as the Council’s Chair. The new council members bring real-world experience that will help connect environmental education with the places Americans live, work, learn, and explore.
“President Trump’s Make America Beautiful Again agenda is about protecting our lands, waters, wildlife, and outdoor traditions for the next generation,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “This council brings together people with real experience in education, conservation, and the outdoors. I look forward to working with them to inspire more young Americans to get outside, learn about our natural resources, and understand the important role they can play in protecting them.”
NEEAC advises the EPA Administrator on environmental education activities, programs, and policies under the National Environmental Education Act of 1990. The council also prepares a biennial report to Congress assessing environmental education in the United States.
The new council will help EPA lead promote true environmental education and explore ways to support President Trump’s Make America Beautiful Again agenda. Its work will emphasize supporting responsible stewardship of natural resources, encouraging voluntary conservation, connecting more Americans with outdoor recreation like hunting and fishing, and supporting joint efforts that conserve America’s wildlife populations while driving economic growth.
Members will begin exploring fresh ways to connect environmental education with responsible conservation, outdoor recreation, and the protection of America’s natural heritage.
Meet the New Council Members
- Dr. Ryan Brock, Jessie Beck Elementary School
- Mr. Doug Deason, The Deason Foundation
- Mr. Jeff Foxworthy, Foxworthy Outdoors
- Mr. Albert Huddleston, Aethon Energy
- Mr. Bill Jones, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
- Mr. Scott Jordan, Cuba-Rushford Central School District
- Dr. James Kroll, Stephen F. Austin State University
- Mr. Keith Mark, Hunter Nation, Chair
- Dr. Nathan Roberts, College of the Ozarks
- Mr. Richard Wissink, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever
Background
The NEEAC selection process began in February 2026, when EPA issued a public request for nominations. Under the National Environmental Education Act of 1990, council members represent primary and secondary education, colleges and universities, business and industry, nonprofit organizations, state departments of education and natural resources, and senior Americans.
For more information about the council, please visit the NEEAC website.
