Montgomery, AL – Spencer Ryan’s 38-year commitment to protecting Alabama’s natural beauty was celebrated as he retired in October from his role as executive director of Alabama People Against a Littered State (PALS). His legacy of environmental stewardship was further recognized on Dec. 9, when Ryan received the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Cultivator Award during the organization’s annual meeting in Montgomery.
The Cultivator Award honors individuals who cultivate relationships that benefit farmers, communities, and rural residents. Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell commended Ryan’s leadership, noting PALS’s significant impact on the state’s rural landscape.
“Before PALS was formed, trash in pastures, fields, and forests was a real issue for farmers,” said Parnell, who also serves as president of Alfa Insurance, a longtime PALS partner. “Today, the effect of litter on ag operations is more manageable. Alfa is proud to be a partner of PALS.”
PALS was founded in 1987 under the guidance of then-State Forester Bill Moody. Ryan initially joined to assist with the organization’s launch but unexpectedly became its executive director after Moody’s impromptu announcement during an early meeting.
“Bill stood up during a meeting in the early days of PALS and said, ‘I’d like to introduce our executive director, Spencer Ryan,’” Ryan recalled. “I had no idea he was going to do that and didn’t know what to think. I accepted with grace, and we took off.”
Under Ryan’s leadership, PALS introduced initiatives such as Adopt-A-Mile, Adopt-A-Stream, Clean Campus, Coastal Cleanup, and Spring Cleanup. These programs have mobilized volunteers across the state, removing millions of pounds of litter and enhancing Alabama’s natural beauty.
Ryan credited the success of PALS to the strength of its partnerships, particularly with Alfa Insurance.
“Out of all the work we’ve accomplished, when we got going with rural communities and farmers, we knew they were going to find a way to get whatever is in front of them done,” Ryan said. “Alfa has been there every day for PALS and has always been willing to take a leadership role.”
Jeff Helms, chairman of the PALS board of directors and director of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Communications Department, highlighted Ryan’s dedication and ability to foster relationships.
“Spencer is known for his ability to build coalitions and partnerships to beautify Alabama,” Helms said. “When he’s your friend, Spencer is extremely loyal. We’re thankful for the impactful work he has done leading the organization.”
Ryan expressed gratitude for the relationships he formed over nearly four decades with PALS, describing board members, sponsors, and volunteers as family.
“What kept me here so long is the people and watching others succeed,” Ryan said. “We’d hug our volunteers, ask about each other’s families, and have a genuine care that can be hard to find today. I loved walking into the office every day. I’ve been blessed.”
Although retired, Ryan plans to continue supporting Alabama’s environmental efforts and nurturing the partnerships that defined his career.