Guckert, William E., 1908-1986.

William E. Guckert, 1908-1986, an early conservationist, established laws pertaining to strip mines and mine drainage in Pennsylvania. Guckert began his conservationist career as secretary of the Allegheny County Sportsmen's League (ACSL). The ACSL was active in protecting, preserving, and conserving the natural resources of Pennsylvania and the nation. As secretary, Guckert helped lead the organization by calling attention to pollution, notably strip-mines. In 1963, Guckert was selected to serve on the State Land Reclamation Board (SLRB), which advocated action against areas affected by strip-mining. Guckert acted as a lobbyist for the SLRB until 1967 when he was appointed Director of the State Bureau of Surface Mine Reclamation (SBSMR) by Governor Raymond Shafer. As Director, Guckert established many of Pennsylvania's current conservation laws and awareness programs. He served as Director of the SBSMR for ten years until his retirement in 1977. William E. Guckert died on October 15, 1986, in Grove City, Mercer County, Pa.