Ralph W. Abele (1921-1990)

Conservation leader and Pennsylvania Fish Commission executive director, 1972-87. Abele's "Resource First" philosophy strengthened the agency's mission to protect, conserve, and enhance water quality, improve fish passage, and increase youth conservation education. Notable achievements included modernizing the Fish and Boat Code, emphasizing conservation enforcement, and leading efforts to restore American shad to the Susquehanna River.