[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 111 (Tuesday, July 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF DR. J. FREDERICK GRASSLE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 8, 2008

  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. J. Frederick 
Grassle on his retirement from the Institute of Marine and Coastal 
Sciences at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. Dr. Grassle 
served as director of the Institute for 19 years.
  Under Dr. Grassle's direction, the Institute gained a national and 
international reputation for excellence in marine and coastal research, 
education and service.
  Dr. Grassle's creativity and vision led to establishment of the 
world's first undersea observatory, commonly known as LEO-15. This 
achievement enabled development of the Nation's Integrated Ocean 
Observing System that now supports critical national missions 
associated with saving lives at sea, enhancing homeland security, and 
forecasting effects of natural disasters.
  Dr. Grassle is known for his innovative thinking and many scientific 
achievements, which are highlighted by his pioneering work on the 
biology of hydrothermal vents, biodiversity, and effects of waste 
disposal in deep sea systems. He devoted his time and effort to ensure 
that the results of science were transferred in a timely manner to 
environmental managers and policymakers. His work on waste disposal 
culminated into a national policy change based on his scientific 
findings and testimony before Congress.
  Serving the state of New Jersey, Dr. Grassle advanced novel 
approaches for disposal and management of contaminated sediments that 
helped to preserve the region's port industry and coastal-based 
economy. He also fostered new approaches to science education that have 
enriched the critical thinking skills of youth in New Jersey and 
throughout the Nation.
  Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in 
celebrating the service of Dr. J. Frederick Grassle, a man whose deep 
commitment to excellence in marine and coastal research, education for 
all ages, and services to resource managers have enabled New Jersey to 
be a national and international leader in these fields.

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