The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has announced that 19 individuals across the country are being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their exceptional contributions to nature conservation.
Among the recipients is Mono’s own John Riley, a regional conservation leader recognized for his decades of dedication to protecting Canada’s natural landscapes.
Riley received his medal at a ceremony on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula. A respected author and conservationist, Riley served as NCC’s first director of conservation science and stewardship, later becoming its chief science officer and a member of its Ontario board. His work helped shape key initiatives such as Ontario’s Living Legacy, the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, and the founding of both the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation and the Greenbelt Foundation.
“The Nature Conservancy of Canada gifted me with the chance and the privilege to immerse myself in, study, and map Canada’s finest lands and waters, for conservation and care. I am grateful to NCC’s fine family of volunteers, staff and donors, whose diversity mirrors Canada so well, and whose dedication to conserving its geography is so unparalleled,” said Riley, who was presented with the medal by NCC’s Patricia Koval and Dana Kleniewski.
“We salute John for his unwavering commitment to nature which embodies the spirit of the King Charles III Coronation Medal,” said Catherine Grenier, President and CEO with Nature Conservancy of Canada. “His leadership, passion, and tireless efforts continue to inspire and uplift the conservation community. We are proud to recognize this great Canadian for his incredible contributions.”
The King Charles III Coronation Medal, created by the Government of Canada to commemorate His Majesty’s coronation, is being awarded to 30,000 Canadians. It recognizes individuals whose service reflects shared values of sustainability, environmental protection, and community leadership. Ceremonies will be held in the coming weeks to honour all recipients.
