Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (SEMARNAT)
Today’s Date: 28 de febrero do 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Una arribazon de Tortugas el la costa del estado de Michoacán, México. El verlas salir de las aguas marinas, desplazarse lentamente en la arena, despues de un largo viaje, me impacto de sobremanera, ya que se puede constatar el gran esfuerzo que estos maravillosos organismos hacen, se aferran al suelo, respiran hondamente y descancan despues de su larga travesia.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Las cascadas de la Tzararacua en Uruapan Michoacan.
Now? El Parque Nacional Barranca de Cupatitzio, ubicado en Uruapan, estado de Michoacan, en el cual se conservan y protegen hermosas cascadas y rios, que constituyen bellos paisajes que nos invitan a reflexionar respecto a nuestra responsabilidad sobre los recursos naturales y donde podemos encontrar paz y tranquilidad, siendo un scenario perfecto para la relajacion.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
El berrendo por que es un animal hermoso, veloz, gracil, dueno de su espacio, simbolo de libertad y grandeza, que ademas debemos proteger debido a que esta catalogado como en peligro de extinction y su habitat he sido en muchos de los casos alterado y modificado.
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?
El reto ambiental mas grande que enfrenta la Secreteria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (SEMARNAT), es “fomenter la proteccion, restauracion y conservacion de los ecosistemas y recursos naturales, y bienes y servicios ambientales, con el fin de propiciar su aprovechamiento y desarrollo sustentable”. Su mission es incorporar en todos los ambitos de la sociedad y de la function publica, criterios e instrumentos que aseguren la optima proteccion, conservacion y aprovechamiento de nuestros recursos naturales, conformando asi una politica ambiental integral e incluyente dentro del marco del desarrollo sustentable. La vision se enfoca a lograr un pais en el que todos abriguen una profunda y sincera preocupacion por protegar y conservar el medio ambiente y utilizar sustentablemente los recursos naturales conciliando desarrollo economico, convivencia armonica con la naturaleza y diversidad cultural.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
En cuanto al apoyo que se da al ambiente y sus recursos naturales, se contempla promover en las nuevas generaciones, la cultura de conservacion de la biodiversidad de Mexico y aprovechamiento de las oportunidades de diversificacion productiva para el beneficio socioeconomico del pais, mediante el fomento al uso legal de la vida silvestre en conjuncto con una gestion eficiente y de alta calidad.
Received via postal mail
**As this was sent via postal mail, it required me to re-type it for posting. I apologize for any grammatical or punctuation errors, as Spanish is not my native language, and Microsoft Word wanted to correct everything as I was typing it. For a rough translation, you can copy and paste the text into the translation box at http://babelfish.altavista.com/ or another translation service of your choice. - Jeremy
Thanks to my sister Michelle McIlroy for designing the logo!
March 30, 2008
Neil Fiske
President and CEO – Eddie Bauer
Today’s Date: March 3, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Watching the black and brown bears hunt for salmon in Alaska – a spectacular combination of natural grace and beauty.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My favorite place in the great outdoors as a child was always in the mountains of Colorado, where I was raised.
Now? It still is.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I have always loved dogs, big dogs in particular. I own two Newfoundlands. They are gentle, loyal, and great companions.
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?
Global warming and sustainability. Population growth and global industrialization will put enormous strain and disruption on the earth’s eco-balance.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Think big and small at the same time – build a global plan for establishing the parameters of sustainability (big) and a personal plan to make your contribution (small).
Received via postal mail
Today’s Date: March 3, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Watching the black and brown bears hunt for salmon in Alaska – a spectacular combination of natural grace and beauty.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My favorite place in the great outdoors as a child was always in the mountains of Colorado, where I was raised.
Now? It still is.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I have always loved dogs, big dogs in particular. I own two Newfoundlands. They are gentle, loyal, and great companions.
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?
Global warming and sustainability. Population growth and global industrialization will put enormous strain and disruption on the earth’s eco-balance.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Think big and small at the same time – build a global plan for establishing the parameters of sustainability (big) and a personal plan to make your contribution (small).
Received via postal mail
Mr. M. Young Vivian
Premier of Niue Island
Today’s Date: January 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Watching the fruit bats and wood pigeons being hammered by ferocious winds of Cyclone Heta that nearly destroyed Niue in 2004.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the village green and my bush garden.
Now? My bush garden
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Cats because they get rid of the rats in my house and surrounding areas.
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?
No answer given
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
No answer given
Received via postal mail
Today’s Date: January 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Watching the fruit bats and wood pigeons being hammered by ferocious winds of Cyclone Heta that nearly destroyed Niue in 2004.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the village green and my bush garden.
Now? My bush garden
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Cats because they get rid of the rats in my house and surrounding areas.
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?
No answer given
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
No answer given
Received via postal mail
Sher Malik
President – Indigenous Peoples Survival Foundation
Today’s Date: 6 February 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I used to take my goats to the mountain for grazing and I lived with them in the same barn.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Favorite place outdoor is peaceful but corporations taking over places.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I like all animals. I like them in open not in the apartment. I do not cage birds, let them free.
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?
No answer given
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
No answer given
Received via postal mail
Today’s Date: 6 February 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I used to take my goats to the mountain for grazing and I lived with them in the same barn.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Favorite place outdoor is peaceful but corporations taking over places.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I like all animals. I like them in open not in the apartment. I do not cage birds, let them free.
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?
No answer given
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
No answer given
Received via postal mail
Clark A. Buchner
Member Executive Committee, Council of Club Leaders - Sierra Club
Today’s Date: March 20, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Over 30 years ago on my first major backpacking trip in Rocky Mountains National Park, I had to deal with an ice storm and drastic weather change. The lesson I learned is that nature is impassionate and conditions can change very suddenly so that one needs to be well prepared when one goes into wild areas.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I was very much at home in the woods of south Arkansas as a child.
Now? My favorite areas are the bald topped Max Patch Mountain on the Tennessee, North Carolina border and the Gila Wilderness of New Mexico.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I am drawn to the coyote. The coyote is a creature that knows how to survive and even thrive where least expected. The coyote has a magical quality that is mythic in Native American folktales. The "trickster" aspect of the coyote makes him somewhat of a Zen animal.
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?
Without question, I believe that global warming is the biggest challenge facing all of life on earth. In the future I think the establishment of resilient habitats will be of utmost importance for wildlife and perhaps humanity as well.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Lean to live simply and walk lightly on the earth.
Today’s Date: March 20, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Over 30 years ago on my first major backpacking trip in Rocky Mountains National Park, I had to deal with an ice storm and drastic weather change. The lesson I learned is that nature is impassionate and conditions can change very suddenly so that one needs to be well prepared when one goes into wild areas.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I was very much at home in the woods of south Arkansas as a child.
Now? My favorite areas are the bald topped Max Patch Mountain on the Tennessee, North Carolina border and the Gila Wilderness of New Mexico.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I am drawn to the coyote. The coyote is a creature that knows how to survive and even thrive where least expected. The coyote has a magical quality that is mythic in Native American folktales. The "trickster" aspect of the coyote makes him somewhat of a Zen animal.
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?
Without question, I believe that global warming is the biggest challenge facing all of life on earth. In the future I think the establishment of resilient habitats will be of utmost importance for wildlife and perhaps humanity as well.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Lean to live simply and walk lightly on the earth.
Rick Herren
Environmental Specialist - Indian River County (FL)
Today’s Date: 19 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was around 12 years old, my parents took us on a canoe trip to the Boundary Waters in Ontario Canada. We spent 10 days canoeing and camping in the wild and saw incredible things. Although I had been camping before, I had never been so remotely removed from civilization. I absolutely loved it (even when I was getting soaked by rain).
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes. We had a large field and woods behind our neighborhood. I spent many hours hiking, building tree houses and watching wildlife.
Now? The ocean. Surfing, sailing and diving.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
That's a hard one. I think it would have to be the spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari). I have caught many of them as by-catch in turtle nets and observed them swimming and jumping out of the water. They are very unique and make me laugh.
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?
Now: The loss of space, species diversity and the lack of understanding of biological principles.
Future: Controlling the human population.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Everyone is a part of it. When we harm the environment, we are harming ourselves. Which means, if you take the argument further, it becomes a problem between people. There are people who do not care about themselves or others. I believe we need a humanistic approach to solve this.
Today’s Date: 19 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was around 12 years old, my parents took us on a canoe trip to the Boundary Waters in Ontario Canada. We spent 10 days canoeing and camping in the wild and saw incredible things. Although I had been camping before, I had never been so remotely removed from civilization. I absolutely loved it (even when I was getting soaked by rain).
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes. We had a large field and woods behind our neighborhood. I spent many hours hiking, building tree houses and watching wildlife.
Now? The ocean. Surfing, sailing and diving.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
That's a hard one. I think it would have to be the spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari). I have caught many of them as by-catch in turtle nets and observed them swimming and jumping out of the water. They are very unique and make me laugh.
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?
Now: The loss of space, species diversity and the lack of understanding of biological principles.
Future: Controlling the human population.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Everyone is a part of it. When we harm the environment, we are harming ourselves. Which means, if you take the argument further, it becomes a problem between people. There are people who do not care about themselves or others. I believe we need a humanistic approach to solve this.
Lauren Smith
Graduate Student - Southeastern Louisiana University
Today’s Date: 18 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
There have been so many! The first time I saw a loggerhead sea turtle crawl out of the ocean under a full moon. Hiking to the top of a mountain to take in a spectacular view. Having an octopus wrap its arm around me and “smell” me with its sucker disks. Learning the personalities of the fish we had for research. Playing with a seal through an aquarium window.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My friends and I had a “house” set up in the woods and we would use leaves as plates and pretend like we lived there. It was so much better than TV.
Now? I recently spent a year in Alaska exploring the beauty of the fjords. The hiking was amazing and the wildlife was spectacular. I intend to move back there as soon as I am done with my master’s degree.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I, too, am a former animal keeper and a current researcher and every animal I have worked with has stolen my heart. They include sea turtles, dolphins, seals, sea lions, ocean surgeonfish, cotton-top tamarins (I worked in the Wildlife Tracking Center at DAK* by the way). Additionally, I have a fascination with giraffes…and moose. I love moose.
* [Jeremy’s note- Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where I worked on the Aviary Team from 1999-2002]
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?
My current research has implications in toxicology. The continued accumulation of pollutants in the environment will leave us with an unusable planet. Imagine being surrounded by water but not being able to drink it. Or being surrounded by air and not being able to breathe it.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
You may not be able to change the world, but you can change the way you do things. If everyone had that same attitude we could accomplish a lot. Don’t be overwhelmed by thinking you can’t do enough, because you can at least do something.
Today’s Date: 18 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
There have been so many! The first time I saw a loggerhead sea turtle crawl out of the ocean under a full moon. Hiking to the top of a mountain to take in a spectacular view. Having an octopus wrap its arm around me and “smell” me with its sucker disks. Learning the personalities of the fish we had for research. Playing with a seal through an aquarium window.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My friends and I had a “house” set up in the woods and we would use leaves as plates and pretend like we lived there. It was so much better than TV.
Now? I recently spent a year in Alaska exploring the beauty of the fjords. The hiking was amazing and the wildlife was spectacular. I intend to move back there as soon as I am done with my master’s degree.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I, too, am a former animal keeper and a current researcher and every animal I have worked with has stolen my heart. They include sea turtles, dolphins, seals, sea lions, ocean surgeonfish, cotton-top tamarins (I worked in the Wildlife Tracking Center at DAK* by the way). Additionally, I have a fascination with giraffes…and moose. I love moose.
* [Jeremy’s note- Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where I worked on the Aviary Team from 1999-2002]
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?
My current research has implications in toxicology. The continued accumulation of pollutants in the environment will leave us with an unusable planet. Imagine being surrounded by water but not being able to drink it. Or being surrounded by air and not being able to breathe it.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
You may not be able to change the world, but you can change the way you do things. If everyone had that same attitude we could accomplish a lot. Don’t be overwhelmed by thinking you can’t do enough, because you can at least do something.
Dean Inserra
Pastor – The Well (Tallahassee, FL)
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew up in a neighborhood that was surrounded by trees. It was very common for my family to sit at the table eating breakfast and see deer in the backyard. I was always amazed by that.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I have always loved being in the mountains. I cannot think of a better example in all of nature for God's creativity and power when I look at a mountain range.
Now? My wife and I love weekend getaways to Western North Carolina and Virginia.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Any kind of monkey. They are just so fun to watch!
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?
The greatest challenge is that it has become a political issue. Many liberals use it as a scare tactic and many conservatives are in denial.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
That it is not a political issue! It is a responsibility issue.
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew up in a neighborhood that was surrounded by trees. It was very common for my family to sit at the table eating breakfast and see deer in the backyard. I was always amazed by that.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I have always loved being in the mountains. I cannot think of a better example in all of nature for God's creativity and power when I look at a mountain range.
Now? My wife and I love weekend getaways to Western North Carolina and Virginia.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Any kind of monkey. They are just so fun to watch!
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?
The greatest challenge is that it has become a political issue. Many liberals use it as a scare tactic and many conservatives are in denial.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
That it is not a political issue! It is a responsibility issue.
Alvin Reid
Professor of Evangelism/Associate Dean - Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hard to say-I have been an animal lover all my life. I have had scores of pets from the traditional to the exotic. I suppose my love for snakes has been the biggest.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My grandparent’s woods in Alabama. And the woods around my house.
Now? Our back yard. It is in a subdivision but we have about 15 bird feeders and my wife and I love to sit and watch them.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I suppose a snake. I have had lots. (see http://alvinreid.com/as-a-rebel --these pics are not my animals but a friend's).
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 would say developing countries wherein governments are doing wholescale tree deforestation. Also the wasteful habits of people in the west.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
It would not be to join a more radical or militant green organization. It would be much simpler. If all of us took little steps to change our use of natural resources it would make a huge difference. From shorter showers to a bit more recycling, from walking more to driving less, etc.
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hard to say-I have been an animal lover all my life. I have had scores of pets from the traditional to the exotic. I suppose my love for snakes has been the biggest.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My grandparent’s woods in Alabama. And the woods around my house.
Now? Our back yard. It is in a subdivision but we have about 15 bird feeders and my wife and I love to sit and watch them.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I suppose a snake. I have had lots. (see http://alvinreid.com/as-a-rebel --these pics are not my animals but a friend's).
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 would say developing countries wherein governments are doing wholescale tree deforestation. Also the wasteful habits of people in the west.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
It would not be to join a more radical or militant green organization. It would be much simpler. If all of us took little steps to change our use of natural resources it would make a huge difference. From shorter showers to a bit more recycling, from walking more to driving less, etc.
Dr. Michael Ierides
Secretary General – CYMEPA (Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association)
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Cats as a pet
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The sea
Now? The forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
cats are independent
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?
Preserving habitats
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Consume less
Today’s Date: 17 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Cats as a pet
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The sea
Now? The forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
cats are independent
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?
Preserving habitats
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Consume less
March 29, 2008
Joanna Alfaro Shigueto
Associated Researcher - Pro Delphinus (Peruvian NGO)
Today’s Date: 15 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
coastal and marine landscapes
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
beach
Now? beach and forests
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
don't have a favourite animal
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?
global warming
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
to provide education or educate
Today’s Date: 15 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
coastal and marine landscapes
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
beach
Now? beach and forests
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
don't have a favourite animal
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?
global warming
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
to provide education or educate
Capt. R. Arthur Anslyn, MBE
Nevis Historical and Conservation Society (NHCS)
Today’s Date: March 15, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
The "Silent World"
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The marine environment
Now? Same
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Dog; pet and security
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?
Pollution. Clean-up
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Protect what we have (left) for future generations to enjoy
Today’s Date: March 15, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
The "Silent World"
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The marine environment
Now? Same
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Dog; pet and security
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?
Pollution. Clean-up
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Protect what we have (left) for future generations to enjoy
Rosalinda Lidh
professional in socially and environmentally responsible media
Today’s Date: 12 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
First walk in a virgin forest - amazed by how distinctly different it was from the forest logged 70 years before just a hundred yards below.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
El Yunque, Puerto Rico
Now? Everglades
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Turtle, b/c I helped complete the National Turtle Survey several years in a row
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?
Resource depletion forcing us to go deeper into undeveloped lands
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Start small; make a habit of environmentally conscious behavior; it’ll add up when millions of us are taking regular action.
Today’s Date: 12 March 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
First walk in a virgin forest - amazed by how distinctly different it was from the forest logged 70 years before just a hundred yards below.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
El Yunque, Puerto Rico
Now? Everglades
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Turtle, b/c I helped complete the National Turtle Survey several years in a row
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?
Resource depletion forcing us to go deeper into undeveloped lands
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Start small; make a habit of environmentally conscious behavior; it’ll add up when millions of us are taking regular action.
March 02, 2008
Poonam Jain
Times of India
Today’s Date: 27 Feb 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
It has made me realise that we are so wrapped up in our small worlds when there is so much that is going on and so much beauty around us.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the park in front of my house.
Now? Any forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Fresh Water Otters, Indian Elephants
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?
Lack of space for animals, and lack of tolerance and respect for nature. So the greatest challenge is population explosion.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Respect all, small and big.
Today’s Date: 27 Feb 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
It has made me realise that we are so wrapped up in our small worlds when there is so much that is going on and so much beauty around us.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the park in front of my house.
Now? Any forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Fresh Water Otters, Indian Elephants
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?
Lack of space for animals, and lack of tolerance and respect for nature. So the greatest challenge is population explosion.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Respect all, small and big.
Stacie Freeland
Graduate Student - Institute of Global Education
Today’s Date: 02-24-08
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Several: Baby octopus got attached to my cheek at the age of 7 and initiated me into the underwater world of wonder; interacted in the Atlantic Ocean for a week with wild bottlenose dolphins and it blew all my senses and made me have a transcendental experience and a physical healing; swam with large wild turtles at Buck Island in the U.S.V.I.; went to school in the ruins of a cotton plantation at an experimental school called Tamarind, in the rainforest, waterfall instead of swimming pool, conch shell in place of a bell, vines to swing on instead of metal swing sets. My formative years were spent growing up wild - literally.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The Baths in Virgin Gorda, B.V.I. and Fredericksted's local park with the large collection of Banyan trees that we could play in.
Now? Mesa Verde in Colorado, the Cliff face steps and paths and the large Gorge of Taos N.M.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I have four; hummingbirds because they are a phenomena; dolphins due to their habitat and playful lifestyle; large cats because they are fiercely independent and the Praying Mantis (even though these are insects) as they are regal and they fascinate me.
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?
The sustainability of fresh water, clean breathable air, uncontaminated soil and the denial/lethargy that so many still suffer from - And in the future, the Sun's role in Earth's rise in temperature coupled with a slow response from decision makers in positions of power as to the need for immediate action in the areas we CAN make a difference in.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Wake up, natural resources don't replenish themselves so do the research and BE the change.
Today’s Date: 02-24-08
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Several: Baby octopus got attached to my cheek at the age of 7 and initiated me into the underwater world of wonder; interacted in the Atlantic Ocean for a week with wild bottlenose dolphins and it blew all my senses and made me have a transcendental experience and a physical healing; swam with large wild turtles at Buck Island in the U.S.V.I.; went to school in the ruins of a cotton plantation at an experimental school called Tamarind, in the rainforest, waterfall instead of swimming pool, conch shell in place of a bell, vines to swing on instead of metal swing sets. My formative years were spent growing up wild - literally.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The Baths in Virgin Gorda, B.V.I. and Fredericksted's local park with the large collection of Banyan trees that we could play in.
Now? Mesa Verde in Colorado, the Cliff face steps and paths and the large Gorge of Taos N.M.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I have four; hummingbirds because they are a phenomena; dolphins due to their habitat and playful lifestyle; large cats because they are fiercely independent and the Praying Mantis (even though these are insects) as they are regal and they fascinate me.
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?
The sustainability of fresh water, clean breathable air, uncontaminated soil and the denial/lethargy that so many still suffer from - And in the future, the Sun's role in Earth's rise in temperature coupled with a slow response from decision makers in positions of power as to the need for immediate action in the areas we CAN make a difference in.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Wake up, natural resources don't replenish themselves so do the research and BE the change.
David S. Lee
The Tortoise Reserve
Today’s Date: 24 Feb 08
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Traveling to islands (WI, Mariana Is, Bermuda) and seeing how well intended government policy can screw up places rather quickly.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, outdoor sites in Maryland where most of the natural areas are now otherwise, and the state has not had good stewardship of its natural resource. Species I found a child later became listed as state endangered in the 70's, and with 3 decades of state stewardship many are now lost, and none are better off.
Now? Good question, at 65 all the places I knew are degraded and all the new ones I visit I can see indications as to their future.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Some cornerstone species like gopher tortoise. It's presence a good index of specific communities and their burrows and mounds provide homes for many interesting animals. They are long lived, and are in direct and constant competition for man for real estate.
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?
Too God Damn many people. Too God Damn many more people. Consumptive societies.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
As nations or individuals don't exploit the world for personal gains. Don't assume our government will do what is right.
Today’s Date: 24 Feb 08
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Traveling to islands (WI, Mariana Is, Bermuda) and seeing how well intended government policy can screw up places rather quickly.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, outdoor sites in Maryland where most of the natural areas are now otherwise, and the state has not had good stewardship of its natural resource. Species I found a child later became listed as state endangered in the 70's, and with 3 decades of state stewardship many are now lost, and none are better off.
Now? Good question, at 65 all the places I knew are degraded and all the new ones I visit I can see indications as to their future.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Some cornerstone species like gopher tortoise. It's presence a good index of specific communities and their burrows and mounds provide homes for many interesting animals. They are long lived, and are in direct and constant competition for man for real estate.
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?
Too God Damn many people. Too God Damn many more people. Consumptive societies.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
As nations or individuals don't exploit the world for personal gains. Don't assume our government will do what is right.
Vinzenz Schmack
Owner - Laguna del Lagarto Lodge (www.lagarto-lodge-costa-rica.com)
Today’s Date: February 19, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew-up at farm and surrounded by woods and had many encounters with wild animals
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes the woods behind the farm of my parents
Now? The rainforest behind my Lodge
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Tapir, because it still lives in the wild in the area of our Lodge
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?
How to preserve the tropical rainforests and the tendencies to build mire and more luxuries hotels. Simplicity is no longer in demand. You have to be luxuries in order to attract attention.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Buy a part of a rainforest, www.protect-rainforests.org
Eco-Tourism Myth and Reality
“Eco” is a fashionable label and everybody uses it whenever possible and of course it is used most widely in Tourism. Who does not want to call his Hotel or Travel Agency “Eco-tourism”? It sounds so much better and people are so much more attracted by such a fashionable word.
However, reality shows that people prefer or are dragged by the Travel Agencies to the same old overcrowded mass tourist resorts equipped with state of the art bars, discos and other entertainment, which, of course, must be big, luxurious and expensive.
The true “Off the Beaten Track”, isolated lodges have a hard time to make ends meet. Travel Agencies do not want to expose their clients to a bad road or even risk being bitten by a mosquito or other possible inconveniences nature might surprise you. And, no doubt, they make a better deal by bringing people to more expensive luxury hotels than to the modestly priced Eco-Lodges.
Advertising Costa Rica, the official Tourist Board, came out with the nice slogan “without artificial ingredients”. However in their official annual MAGAZIN “NATURALLY COSTA RICA”, only the large chain luxury hotels can afford to advertise and are they not full of artificial ingredients? For the puff luxury decoration, radio, TV, VHS, Mini-Bar and so on., the price has to be $ 150.- plus.
The many ecological institutions who operate in Costa Rica contribute to this trend and channel the student groups to overcrowded places like Monteverde, Tortuguero, and Manuel Antonio and prefer places with paved trails through the Rain Forest like in “La Selva”, which is not the concept of ecotourism.
The big companies offer their employees Incentive Tours, but would not dream of choosing a true Ecolodge. Instead they send them to 5 star luxury Hotel with swimming pool, jaccussi, golf course and health spa, where they spend a lot of money and come back just as tired as when left the office. They still have not come up to the idea that sometimes the employees would rather prefer a quiet, unspoiled and natural retreat where they would regain time to gather strength and peace to their bodies and minds.
We believe that the true meaning of Eco-Tourism is to go back to nature, accept simplicity, and be content with a clean, simple, but comfortable room and facilities and accept for a while the inconveniences of a dirt road, a muddy trail through the lush Rain Forest and (why not?) some rain, too. As a reward you are overwhelmed by the beauty and exuberance of nature, instead of the noisy and overcrowded places one finds in every big cities. Something has to be done to re-orient tourists to the true eco-lodges to enjoy the wonders of nature and if the so-called Eco-Travel Agencies stick to their Logo, they should also include in their programs true eco-lodges in isolated areas.
We, owners of small Eco-lodges, do not want to deny the “eco-tourists” the right to spend their vacation in one of the many luxury hotels according to their means. But, if they really want to practice Eco-tourism, our suggestion is that they should at least spend a couple of nights in a true Eco-lodge in an isolated area and pay respect to Mother Nature.
Vinzenz Schmack
Owner of “La Laguna del Lagarto Lodge”
E-mail: lagarto@racsa.co.cr
Web-site: www.lagarto-lodge-costa-rica.com
Today’s Date: February 19, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew-up at farm and surrounded by woods and had many encounters with wild animals
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes the woods behind the farm of my parents
Now? The rainforest behind my Lodge
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Tapir, because it still lives in the wild in the area of our Lodge
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?
How to preserve the tropical rainforests and the tendencies to build mire and more luxuries hotels. Simplicity is no longer in demand. You have to be luxuries in order to attract attention.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Buy a part of a rainforest, www.protect-rainforests.org
Eco-Tourism Myth and Reality
“Eco” is a fashionable label and everybody uses it whenever possible and of course it is used most widely in Tourism. Who does not want to call his Hotel or Travel Agency “Eco-tourism”? It sounds so much better and people are so much more attracted by such a fashionable word.
However, reality shows that people prefer or are dragged by the Travel Agencies to the same old overcrowded mass tourist resorts equipped with state of the art bars, discos and other entertainment, which, of course, must be big, luxurious and expensive.
The true “Off the Beaten Track”, isolated lodges have a hard time to make ends meet. Travel Agencies do not want to expose their clients to a bad road or even risk being bitten by a mosquito or other possible inconveniences nature might surprise you. And, no doubt, they make a better deal by bringing people to more expensive luxury hotels than to the modestly priced Eco-Lodges.
Advertising Costa Rica, the official Tourist Board, came out with the nice slogan “without artificial ingredients”. However in their official annual MAGAZIN “NATURALLY COSTA RICA”, only the large chain luxury hotels can afford to advertise and are they not full of artificial ingredients? For the puff luxury decoration, radio, TV, VHS, Mini-Bar and so on., the price has to be $ 150.- plus.
The many ecological institutions who operate in Costa Rica contribute to this trend and channel the student groups to overcrowded places like Monteverde, Tortuguero, and Manuel Antonio and prefer places with paved trails through the Rain Forest like in “La Selva”, which is not the concept of ecotourism.
The big companies offer their employees Incentive Tours, but would not dream of choosing a true Ecolodge. Instead they send them to 5 star luxury Hotel with swimming pool, jaccussi, golf course and health spa, where they spend a lot of money and come back just as tired as when left the office. They still have not come up to the idea that sometimes the employees would rather prefer a quiet, unspoiled and natural retreat where they would regain time to gather strength and peace to their bodies and minds.
We believe that the true meaning of Eco-Tourism is to go back to nature, accept simplicity, and be content with a clean, simple, but comfortable room and facilities and accept for a while the inconveniences of a dirt road, a muddy trail through the lush Rain Forest and (why not?) some rain, too. As a reward you are overwhelmed by the beauty and exuberance of nature, instead of the noisy and overcrowded places one finds in every big cities. Something has to be done to re-orient tourists to the true eco-lodges to enjoy the wonders of nature and if the so-called Eco-Travel Agencies stick to their Logo, they should also include in their programs true eco-lodges in isolated areas.
We, owners of small Eco-lodges, do not want to deny the “eco-tourists” the right to spend their vacation in one of the many luxury hotels according to their means. But, if they really want to practice Eco-tourism, our suggestion is that they should at least spend a couple of nights in a true Eco-lodge in an isolated area and pay respect to Mother Nature.
Vinzenz Schmack
Owner of “La Laguna del Lagarto Lodge”
E-mail: lagarto@racsa.co.cr
Web-site: www.lagarto-lodge-costa-rica.com
Jane Anne Jeffries
Wetlands Action Network
Today’s Date: February 19, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My father was a boat builder, so frequently the family would go deep sea fishing. We would leave the harbor very early in the morning, bound for Catalina or San Clemente Island where the fishing would be excellent. As we traveled west toward the islands, the sun would rise in the east [the earth was turning, of course] and I would see night become day on a huge dome, much like being in the planetarium at the observatory.
I have a golden retriever and a husky. My interaction with them daily is through mental telepathy. They can read my mind.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Any and every place outdoors was my favorite. I much preferred being outside. When I was in college at The Principia, I studied in wind caves on the bluffs of the Mississippi.
Now? I love La Ballona Wetlands. I also love my backyard with its orange and avocado trees.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
My favorite animal is the Arabian horse, though my experience with horses has been limited because I have allergies.
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'm teaching third graders. The children I teach are not outside the way I was when I was their age. At recess, they eat and drink sugary drinks instead of playing sports. Instead of using nature in their play, they prefer electronic devices. They don't know nature is our source as well as being 'them!' They are disconnected from their source and themselves.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Learn to live in nature as nature. Study the lives of indigenous peoples.
Today’s Date: February 19, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My father was a boat builder, so frequently the family would go deep sea fishing. We would leave the harbor very early in the morning, bound for Catalina or San Clemente Island where the fishing would be excellent. As we traveled west toward the islands, the sun would rise in the east [the earth was turning, of course] and I would see night become day on a huge dome, much like being in the planetarium at the observatory.
I have a golden retriever and a husky. My interaction with them daily is through mental telepathy. They can read my mind.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Any and every place outdoors was my favorite. I much preferred being outside. When I was in college at The Principia, I studied in wind caves on the bluffs of the Mississippi.
Now? I love La Ballona Wetlands. I also love my backyard with its orange and avocado trees.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
My favorite animal is the Arabian horse, though my experience with horses has been limited because I have allergies.
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'm teaching third graders. The children I teach are not outside the way I was when I was their age. At recess, they eat and drink sugary drinks instead of playing sports. Instead of using nature in their play, they prefer electronic devices. They don't know nature is our source as well as being 'them!' They are disconnected from their source and themselves.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Learn to live in nature as nature. Study the lives of indigenous peoples.
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