On November 15, 2005, the National Audubon Society presented the Rockefeller Family with the 2005 Audubon Medal, one of conservation's most prestigious awards, during the Centennial Audubon Medal Dinner. During the dinner, Audubon paid tribute to five generations of conservation leadership who have dedicated themselves to protecting the nation's natural heritage - from the California redwoods to the Hudson River.

The Rockefellers are the first family in history to receive the Audubon Medal, which recognizes individual achievement in the field of conservation and environmental protection. Past winners include the Honorable Jimmy Carter, Robert Redford, and Ted Turner.