USU Extension Volunteer Jeff Barnes Inducted into NCF-Envirothon Hall of Fame
The National Conservation Foundation (NCF) recently announced that Jeff Barnes, volunteer for the Utah Envirothon, a youth program affiliated with Utah State University Extension 4-H, has been inducted into the NCF-Envirothon Hall of Fame. The award recognizes his decades of service, leadership, and dedication to environmental education. The honor was presented last month at the NCF-Envirothon, held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, where high school students from across the U.S., Canada, and beyond gathered to compete in North America’s largest environmental education competition.
Barnes has been a foundational force in the success and longevity of the Utah Envirothon, serving as one of its founding members and the only individual to participate in every event since its inception 26 years ago. His commitment began with the original steering committee and has continued through his vital role in organizing, mentoring, and ensuring the event’s continued excellence.
Barnes’ induction honors not only his long-standing dedication to the program, but also his vision of empowering the next generation to care for and protect natural resources.
As a rangeland management expert, Barnes has shared his deep knowledge with countless students and teachers, inspiring a greater understanding of healthy range ecosystems. He has also recruited and mentored numerous station captains, enriching the educational experience for all participants.
“Jeff’s passion, consistency, and leadership have left a lasting impact on the Envirothon program in Utah and beyond,” said Carrie Milligan, the USU Extension program coordinator who oversees the Utah Envirothon. “He has helped shape generations of environmental stewards through his teaching and example.”
In addition to his work with Envirothon, Barnes has invested heavily in Utah’s youth through the annual high school range summer camp, fall range judging competitions, and his service with the Society for Range Management. His influence has extended nationally as he has represented Utah at multiple NCF-Envirothon competitions and promoted the program among agencies, teachers, and natural resource professionals.
In his acceptance speech, Barnes emphasized the importance of youth in conservation and education.
“Investing in youth by being involved in teaching and education is the best thing we as adults can do,” he said. “These talented youth are why I am involved in the Utah Envirothon.”
About NCF-Envirothon:
The NCF-Envirothon is North America’s largest environmental education competition, engaging high school students in hands-on, outdoor learning. The program fosters leadership, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills while promoting stewardship of natural resources. Learn more at envirothon.org/.
About Utah Envirothon:
The Utah Envirothon is a hands-on, outdoor natural resources competition for high school students that challenges teams to apply critical thinking and teamwork skills while learning about soils, forestry, aquatics, wildlife, and current environmental issues. Since its founding more than 25 years ago, the Utah Envirothon has helped prepare thousands of students to become informed leaders and stewards of Utah’s natural resources.
Teachers, students, and volunteers are invited to be part of the Utah Envirothon community. Whether through mentoring, competing, or supporting the event, involvement helps inspire the next generation of conservation leaders. To learn more or get involved, click here.