A Green Giant's Fight for the Hudson

A Life of Service

Richard Ottinger, a name not many know, but his work changed the course of history. He lived a long life, 97 years, and spent a good chunk of it fighting for the environment.

• Political Background:
• Democrat, but his family was Republican.
• Switched sides when he was a young lawyer in the 1950s.
• Served in Congress for 16 years, but not all at once.
• There was a break where he tried to run for the Senate but didn't make it.

Environmental Champion

Ottinger was a big deal when it came to the environment. He didn't just talk about it; he took action.

• Hudson River Cleanup:
• Sponsored laws to clean up the Hudson River.
• Sued the government to ensure they took care of the river.

• In 1983, he won a big case that forced the Reagan administration to start cleaning up the river from harmful chemicals.

• Stopping Harmful Projects:
• Stopped a 10-mile expressway along the Hudson.
• Prevented a power plant from being built into a mountain.
• Fought hard to keep these projects from happening.

Legacy

Ottinger's work shows that one person can make a big difference. He didn't just sit back and let things happen. He took action and made a difference in the world. He was a true environmental hero.