Johnson Bradley Bridgwater

Director of Conservation Outreach, WildShare International

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?

The first animal that resonated with me was the pileated woodpecker-- HUGE and so distinct. The first plant I remember was the Yellow Lady Slipper. Both of these were in my own backyard, as I grew up in a woodlands outside of Apple Valley, Minnesota before it was developed. I spent every day and most evenings wandering the woods, often with my father who was an ornithologist and zoo director. As a testament to the area's natural power, I returned last year to visit my childhood home, and discovered the whole area had been preserved and set aside as part of a unique high school that specializes in ecological study programs.

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

Yes, the northern woods of Minnesota.

Now? El Cielo Biosphere Reserve in Tamaulipas, Mexico.

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

Owls. Apart from their piercing eyes and seductive calls, it is because they are present everywhere, and yet rarely seen. For me, this should be an ideal for humans-- make as little impact on the natural world as possible while doing your part for the ecosystem.

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?

Plain and simple, non-sustainable development. Earth is one huge equation, and currently the input and output are terribly out of balance. This will continue to be the greatest challenge until an entirely new mind-set can be instilled in humanity.

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

TAKE YOUR CHILDREN CAMPING, and ensure they have a deep connection to the land.