Friend of the Flint Hills 2026

The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) Foundation will recognize Richard Porter as their 2026 Friend of the Flint Hills at their annual spring event on Friday, April 10.

The FHDC Foundation has given the “Friend of the Flint Hills” award to an individual, couple, non-government organization or public institution each year since 2012. The award honors significant time, effort and resources devoted to the cause of conserving the Flint Hills of Kansas and northern Oklahoma.

“It’s an honor to introduce and recognize our 2026 Friend of the Flint Hills. Richard Porter. Few exemplify such humility, dedication, stewardship and unwavering commitment to the conservation of the tallgrass prairie and the agricultural industry it supports. While his methods are often viewed as unique or bold, they reflect his deep respect and passion for the land and a long-term commitment to preserving the ecological and agricultural integrity of the Flint Hills”, said FHDC Foundation President Lyle Butler.

Porter now owns and operates Porter Cattle Company, receiving around 7,000 high-risk calves annually, growing them out to 900 lbs. on Flint Hills grass. Porter is deeply committed to ranching and his family legacy, but also to the conservation of the Flint Hills. Through responsible land stewardship and long-term conservation practices, he has helped preserve the region’s precious natural resources while ensuring its sustainability for future generations. Porter leads with responsibility and respect because he believes that we are all merely tenants on this land, the only difference is that some tenants have the pay property tax.

To read the full story on Richard please visit: https://www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/3549/Friend-of-the-Flint-Hills

Please join us to celebrate Richard, his leadership, his stewardship and his integrity that continues to guide the next generation.