Skott Holck

Private Citizen

Today’s Date: July 19, 2006

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

When I was a teen I found myself very depressed one night. I took a drive with no particular destination in mind. At one point, I got out of the car to look at stars. After gazing upward for a while I glanced down and discovered there were nearly a dozen rabbits all about my feet. They seemed completely un-timid around me. For a few moments we had this odd bond. Then they just sort of jumped off. Since that time, I have had a deep connection with rabbits.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?

I was raised in a very urban setting, but I did have a favorite tree in my great grandfather's yard.

Now? There is a small rock out cropping along the Oregon coast called Devils elbow. I feel very connected to the Earth whenever I am there.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

I very much like the Sloth, I find its pace and relationship to the world around it representative of a relaxed state of mind.

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

I think humanity's attitude of separateness from the world to be its biggest challenge now and in the future. As long as mankind thinks of itself as being masters of the Earth, we will forever be at odds with it. We are as much a part of the Earth as the rocks under our feet. Until we realize this in a widespread manner, we will always have difficulty.

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

Treat the Earth as you do yourself. There is no division. WE are the Earth.