WASHINGTON, D.C. — The conservation movement, wildlife and the American people lost one of their greatest advocates with the passing of Congressman John Dingell, the National Wildlife Federation said today. Dingell, the longest serving member of Congress in U.S. history and a towering figure in conservation policy was a past recipient of the National Wildlife Federations’ National Conservation Achievement Award.
“America has lost one of its all-time greatest conservation heroes and the National Wildlife Federation has lost one of its best friends,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “From his days as a forest ranger to his 59 years in Congress, Chairman Dingell always spoke up for wildlife that couldn’t speak for itself, passing more legislation for wildlife than any other lawmaker in our nation’s history — including the bedrock Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, Wilderness Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 and National Environmental Education Act — and children will experience the wonders of wildlife for centuries to come at his beloved Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. The entire National Wildlife Federation family’s prayers are with our dear friend, Debbie, and the entire Dingell family. Godspeed, Mr. Chairman.”
“John Dingell was a conservation champion,” said Mike Shriberg, executive director of the National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes Regional Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. “We are grateful for the Great Lakes and clean water he protected and the wildlife he conserved through his tireless public service. We will miss his wit, but his legacy will last for generations to come. We offer our deepest condolences to our friend, Rep. Debbie Dingell.”
Parker is a shining role model for all she has accomplished and her ongoing positivity, energy, and belief in changing the world for the better.
Read the StoryHear from champions for greater and safer access to the outdoors as they discuss the potential solutions to address the intersectional issues faced by Black communities.
Listen NowBy taking the Mayors' Monarch Pledge, your local leaders can commit to uniting your community around saving the imperiled monarch. Send a message today urging your mayor or head of local or Tribal government to pledge before April 30!
Act NowGet quotes now or call (855) 786-0941
Get Quotes NowMore than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 53 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.