Inspiring land and wildlife habitat stewardship in future generations of landowners, hunters and outdoor recreationists
September 15, 2026 – Washington, D.C. – Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s vice president of conservation programs, Rich Wissink, was one of 10 people appointed to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s National Environmental Education Advisory Council (NEEAC). The NEEAC—an independent advisory committee established by the National Environmental Education Act of 1990 to advise the EPA Administrator on environmental education activities, programs, and policies—will bring together a dynamic group of educators, conservationists, outdoorsmen, state leaders, nonprofit advocates and noted experts to help foster a new generation of hunters and conservationists.
“Inspiring a genuine appreciation for the land and wildlife is the first step on the path to becoming a lifelong conservation supporter, advocate and land steward,” Wissink said. “That appreciation grows through a variety of experiences like hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. I am both humbled and honored to represent Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever and our conservation community on this advisory council.”
The new council will help the EPA lead and promote 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.
“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.”
About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make up the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. This community of more than 500,000 members, supporters and partners is dedicated to the protection of our uplands through habitat improvement, public access, education and advocacy. A network of 754 local chapters spread across North America determine how 100 percent of their locally raised funds are spent — the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. Since its creation in 1982, the organization has dedicated more than $1 billion to 580,000 habitat projects benefiting 31 million acres.
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