ERNIE BARNETT
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT, FLORIDA LAND COUNCIL/WATER AND LAND ADVISORS, WEST PALM BEACH/TALLAHASSEE
The Florida Land Council is a non-profit corporation formed to protect the 3 million acres owned by its 19 principal members. Barnett spent 30 years at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the South Florida Water Management District, where he contributed to several landmark environmental laws. He has been a leader in Everglades restoration for more than 25 years. A native Floridian, Barnett also owns a consulting firm, Water and Land Advisors.
| EDUCATION | Northwest Florida State College (AA), University of West Florida (BS, MS), University of Florida (MS) |
| PROFESSIONAL EVOLUTION | While the media focuses on environmental advocacy groups, I grew to understand that the true protectors of our state’s natural resources were Florida’s farmer, ranchers, citrus growers, tree farmers and other agribusiness owners. |
| SOMETHING SURPRISING | I am an avid wildlife and landscape artist. I give my artwork to friends or donate paintings to raise money for charities. |