One of Pennsylvania’s environmental pioneers, Dr. Paul W. Hess, 84, of Hershey, Pa, passed away March 11 after a long illness.

Dr. Hess served on numerous environmental boards and committees, including the state Environmental Quality Board, DEP’s Citizens’ Advisory Council, the Air and Water Quality Technical Advisory Committee, and Solid Waste Advisory Committee.

He was also active in the American Industrial Hygiene Association, the PA Chamber of Business and Industry Environmental Affairs Committee, the Chocolate Manufacturers Association Environmental and Safety Committee, and the National Food Processors Association (now called the Food Processors Association) Environmental Affairs Committee.

He received Power Magazine’s Environmental Protection Award and the Pennsylvania Resources Council Award. Dr. Hess also served as chairman of the Derry Township Municipal authority and was an adjunct professor in Environmental Pollution Control at Penn State Harrisburg.

Professionally, Dr. Hess retired from the Hershey Foods Corporation (The Hershey Company), where he worked as Director of Environmental Affairs. Dr. Hess joined Hershey Foods in 1969 to develop the company's first environmental management programs, which included a variety of recycling, pollution prevention, water resource management and energy conservation programs. He continued to serve the company in that capacity until his retirement.

He also served as the chairman of the Department of Biology at Lebanon Valley College.

In addition to his Ph.D. research, Dr. Hess conducted significant research in experimental landfill operations, flooded limestone quarry fish culture programs, solid waste management and industrial noise exposure. He published numerous papers and articles related to his extensive research.

“It was my privilege to work with Paul during his many years of service, both at Hershey Foods and on DEP’s advisory committees,” said former DEP Secretary David Hess. “His advice and common sense approach to environmental issues helped shape the state’s major air, water and waste programs over the last 35 years. He was a true environmental pioneer who let science guide public policy.”

Dr. Hess had a bachelor’s degree in naval science from the United States Merchant Marine Academy, a Master’s Degree in zoology and a Ph.D in physiology, both from the University of Delaware where he conducted research on shark physiology and open bay ecology.

A retired captain in the United States Navy, Dr. Hess served in World War II, seeing action including the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. He also served in the Korean War.

The family is requesting memorial contributions be made to the Organ Fund, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, Pa 17022. Friends can also sign an online guest book.

3/14/2008