(ANNAPOLIS, MD)—Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) President William C. Baker issued this statement following the death of William Ruckelshaus, twice EPA Administrator and widely considered the “father of the Environmental Protection Agency.” The long relationship with CBF included a roast at the National Press Club with Walter Cronkite as the master of ceremonies.
“Bill was a close friend, personally and professionally. We extend our deepest sympathy to Jill Ruckelshaus, Bill’s life partner, and to the entire extended family.
“Bill was an environmental leader, supporting vigorous enforcement of the Clean Water Act. He realized that saving the Chesapeake Bay required bringing the states and federal government together to achieve a common goal. At the time, that was a radical idea. His leadership lead to the successes we are seeing today. We are forever indebted to him.”
