For Immediate Release
December 16, 2009 Contact: Jeff Tittel, 609-558-9100
Sierra Club statement on the passing of Dery Bennett
The New Jersey Sierra Club is saddened by the loss of long time environmentalist Dery Bennett. Bennett was the founder and director of the American Littoral Society and a stalwart figure in the New Jersey environmental community.
"Dery was a great man, great environmentalist, and a great human being," said Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club. "Dery has been an inspiration for all of us when it comes to protecting the environment and this planet we love. He had a strong commitment to environmental principles, but always worked with a smile and twinkle in his eye."
Dery was a pioneer in the environmental movement. He founded the only national environmental group based in New Jersey - the American Littoral Society and was one of the first voices to protect our oceans. His inspiration led to the foundation of NY/NJ Baykeeper, Clean Ocean Action, Delaware Riverkeeper, and others.
Dery helped found the modern conservation movement, and was one of the first environmentalists to reach out to fisherman, baymen, boaters and other non environmental constituents.
"When you look out and see the sparkle of the ocean you will see the sparkle of Dery's eyes who committed his life to protecting the environment and the oceans," said Tittel.
The staff and volunteers of the New Jersey Sierra Club offer their sincere condolences to the Bennett family and the Littoral Society.
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