State Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville) has been honored as the 2025 RC&D Legislator of the Year by the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils (AARCD).

The announcement was made during the Alabama Mountains, Rivers & Valleys RC&D annual conference held at Guntersville State Park Lodge.

The event brought together RC&D leaders from across Alabama to celebrate partnerships and local initiatives that strengthen communities through conservation and development projects.

The annual Legislator of the Year award recognizes lawmakers who demonstrate strong commitment to community development, conservation, and grassroots partnerships.

Reynolds, who chairs the House General Fund Committee, was recognized for his leadership and advocacy that have advanced these efforts statewide.

“What I enjoy most about what we do in the legislature is appropriating funds that get down to our non-profits and our community-based programs, like RC&D, doing the ‘boots on the ground’ work,” Reynolds said.

“You are doing great work across the state and I appreciate you so much. Thank you for this award but thank you so much more for what you do.”

The Alabama Association of RC&D Councils partners with the Legislature to reinvest state-appropriated funds into local projects.

These include outdoor classrooms, rural broadband, agricultural innovation, volunteer fire departments, and environmental restoration—programs that enhance quality of life statewide.

“Representative Reynolds has been an incredible advocate for Alabama’s communities,” said Katie Conner, executive director of the AARC&D Councils.

“He truly cares about the people we serve and understands how local projects can create lasting impact. His support has strengthened our work across the state and continues to make a meaningful difference, helping us fulfill RC&D’s mission to make Alabama a better place to live, work, and play.”

Renona Seibert, executive director of the AMRV RC&D Council, added, “We are deeply grateful for Representative Reynolds’s commitment to North Alabama and his understanding of how RC&D programs change lives. His advocacy helps us bring resources directly to the communities we serve — from classrooms and farms to first responders and conservation projects.”

The Alabama Association of RC&D Councils (AARCD) coordinates nine local councils statewide, ensuring state-appropriated funds are used effectively for education, economic development, conservation, and community improvement.