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John C Bryson was an extraordinary American. He was a USAF veteran - Korea conflict. He was an outstanding problem solver in environmental engineering and sciences. Under his leadership, the state of Delaware enacted new laws to effectively manage and enhance its air and water quality. Under his leadership a joint effort (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania , Delaware and the US government) to clean up Delaware river and estuary. In the early 1960s the dissolved oxygen levels in the Delaware river would go down to zero in a forty mile stretch.
It took 15 years and over $ 2 billion to mitigate the pollution from refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing plants, and municipal sewage treatment plants. Under his leadership air pollution in Delaware was materially reduced to meet US EPA's clean air standards. He was responsible for bringing order to management of the state's surface and groundwater resources, development of county wide regional sewage treatment systems, protection of freshwater wetlands. He improved state parks, fish and wildlife areas. He brought innovation to automating chemical analysis of water and air quality. He was known for his "I can" approach to problem solving. He exemplified American value of generosity and willingness to help others in need. He was a great mentor and a true friend. May his Soul Rest in Peace.