Celebrating the 2026 Reed Environmental Writing Award Winners
Today, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) has honored two exceptional writers, Catherine Coleman Flowers and Lindsey Liles, by awarding them the prestigious 2026 Phillip D. Reed Environmental Writing Award. This accolade highlights the power of storytelling in addressing critical environmental issues faced in the South.
The Importance of the Reed Award
The Reed Award seeks to shine a light on literary excellence and to delve into the remarkable narratives surrounding the South's environmental challenges. Annually, the award recognizes outstanding works in two categories: Book and Journalism. The Book category celebrates nonfiction works published by established houses, while the Journalism category appreciates articles from recognized institutions like newspapers and nonprofit organizations.
A Special Ceremony for the Winners
To honor the winners, SELC will hold an award ceremony during a much-anticipated event. This presentation will be part of the Virginia Festival of the Book and is open to the public. Attendees can participate in person or enjoy a livestream of the ceremony.
Keynote Speaker for the Ceremony
The distinguished keynote speaker for this year's event is Christian Cooper, an Emmy Award-winning host and bestselling author. He is well-known for his commitment to environmental advocacy and his captivating work on National Geographic's “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper.” Christian’s passion for nature and community engagement makes him an inspiring figure in the world of environmental writing.
Spotlight on the Award Winners
Let's take a closer look at this year's celebrated authors and their contributions:
Book Category: Catherine Coleman Flowers
Catherine Coleman Flowers, who has received this accolade before, is celebrated for her impactful book, “Holy Ground: On Activism, Environmental Justice, and Finding Hope.” In her collection of essays, she shares a poignant message that resonates deeply with contemporary environmental issues.
Flowers’ writing addresses the urgent challenges encountered by marginalized communities, drawing on her extensive experience in activism and advocacy. Her essays blend personal reflections with broader social themes, urging readers to confront the realities of environmental injustice and advocate for positive change.
Journalism Category: Lindsey Liles
In the Journalism category, Lindsey Liles is recognized for her feature article titled “Inside the Fight to Save the World's Most Endangered Wolf,” published in Garden & Gun. Liles’ insightful writing brings to light the ongoing struggle to protect the red wolf, articulating the balance between environmental conservation, societal engagement, and policy matters.
Through her compelling narrative, Liles engages readers by highlighting the importance of preserving endangered species and the delicate interplay of ecological preservation and human impact on the environment. Her work serves as a call to action for the protection of our planet's unique biodiversity.
About the Southern Environmental Law Center
SELC stands out as a leading organization in environmental advocacy, addressing the most pressing challenges within the region. With a dedicated team of over 200 staff members, SELC is committed to protecting air, water, wildlife, and the natural heritage of the South. The organization has a rich history of influencing legal and policy changes that benefit our communities and environment.
Discovering the Legacy of the Reed Award
Initiated in 1994, the Reed Environmental Writing Award was established to enhance public awareness of the South’s unique natural environment and its vulnerabilities. Named after SELC’s founding trustee, Phil Reed, this award recognizes those who effectively convey the region's environmental stories. Previous winners have included notable authors and journalists who continue to enrich public discourse surrounding environmental issues.
For those interested in participating in the ceremony, registration is open, and the first 400 virtual registrants will receive a copy of Catherine Coleman Flowers's acclaimed book, further promoting the ongoing conversation about environmental justice and advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Reed Environmental Writing Award?
The Reed Award recognizes outstanding literary contributions that explore environmental issues in the Southern United States, celebrating both book and journalistic works.
Who were the winners for 2026?
Catherine Coleman Flowers won for her book “Holy Ground,” and Lindsey Liles was awarded for her article on the red wolf in Garden & Gun.
What is the significance of the award ceremony?
The ceremony honors the contributions of writers in environmental storytelling, raising awareness about vital ecological issues while engaging the community.
Who is the keynote speaker?
Christian Cooper, an Emmy Award-winning host and author, will serve as the keynote speaker, sharing his insights on environmental advocacy.
How can I attend the ceremony?
Individuals can register for in-person attendance or opt to watch the ceremony via livestream, making it accessible for all interested participants.
