Here is the citation from his 2011 Great Floridian Award: Nathaniel Pryor Reed – Over the last half century, Nathaniel Reed has distinguished himself as an environmental advisor to seven Florida governors from both political parties, and as Assistant Secretary of the Interior under Presidents Nixon and Ford. He has been a lifelong crusader on behalf of the Everglades. Mr. Reed’s public service career in Florida began in 1962, when he became involved in strengthening the policies regarding salvage and treasure leases in Florida’s territorial waters. In 1967, Reed accepted Governor Claude Kirk’s offer to serve as the state’s first Governor’s Environmental Counsel. Reed played a key role in opposing the Florida Jetport and the Cross Florida Barge Canal. Governor Bob Graham appointed Reed to serve on the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board, a position he held for fourteen years, being subsequently reappointed by Governors Martinez and Chiles.
Reed chaired the committee that developed the mechanisms to create and fund Florida’s ambitious state land acquisition programs which have protected more than 2.4 million acres of land. He co-chaired the committee which called for establishment of the Florida Greenaways program, and served on ELMS II, which led to the creation of Florida’s comprehensive plan and greater regional planning. To this day, his leadership continues to transform the environmental culture, values and public policies of Florida.
