Cheryl Kortemeier

Director of Communications and Administration, Trees Atlanta

Today's Date: 8/30/06

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

I have fond memories of camping at Cumberland Island (Georgia) as a child. I can still remember seeing armadillos and alligators for the first time, and the smell of the air there was very “specific”—not unlike rotten eggs.

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

The creek down the street from my house.

Now? AuTrain, Michigan. It is a beautiful area of the Upper Peninsula that offers lots of great spots for outdoor recreation and enjoying beautiful vistas.

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

Pika. I saw several while hiking in Colorado as a child, and they were adorable. I was fascinated by this “elusive” animal, because they do not live in Georgia.

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?

Currently, I think air pollution is the biggest challenge. In the future, I think air and water management will continue to be great challenges worldwide.

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

Be respectful. Know that every action you take each day impacts the world around you.