Steve West

biology teacher, Carlsbad High School and president, Chihuahuan Desert Conservation Alliance

Today's Date: 1 March 2007

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

These questions are difficult because there are so many possible answers. This is one of the tough ones. Cave Swallow. I started a banding program on this species in 1978 and have continued it to this year. We have banded over 18,000 individuals and have learned so much about this largely forgotten species. Seen some great country, caves and worked with over 5000 people in the project since its inception.

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

Rattlesnake Springs, a small piece of National Park Service property that was purchased to provide water for the park but has turned into a great spot for neotropical migrants, T/E species and a small slice of good riparian area in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Now? Each summer I leave the country and explore a new area and have loved every place I visited. 2006-Australia, 2005-Ecuadore, 2004-Brasil, 2003-Mexico, 2002- arctic Canada, etc.

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

Hard to say. When I made my first trip to Africa in 1997, someone asked me what my favorite bird was. I answered Giraffe without hesitation. I know it's not a bird but it was the neatest thing I saw on the trip. I guess everything I see is my favorite.

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?

Overpopulation, which is fueling the threats of climate change and habitat destruction.

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

Every day, do something, however small, that helps the planet and all of its inhabitants.