Katie Joseph

Studio Manager, Joel Sartore Photography

Today’s Date: 9 July 2008

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

My grandmother got me a subscription to Ranger Rick (National Wildlife Federation's kids magazine) when I was a kid. After reading about manatees in the magazine, I adopted one and have been interested in endangered species ever since. As far as a direct interaction with nature, I'd say spending a hefty amount of time in my own back yard influenced me, as did looking at the critters I found there under magnifying glasses and microscopes.

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

My own back yard.

Now? I love the bike trails in and around town as well as my back yard, but my ultimate favorite outdoors spot is a sinkhole in Brazil that hosts a flock of red and green macaws (Buraco das Araras).

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

I would love to meet a lemur because they're so intelligent and unusual, but would definitely pass that up for a chance to meet an elephant. Doug Chadwick's "The Fate of the Elephant" is an excellent read, and kindled that desire in 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?

Balancing the needs of the many humans on this planet with the needs of other species. Solving humanitarian problems is the first step in solving environmental problems.

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

It's simple: don't be wasteful. That applies to everything. It's the way my grandparents lived, and if we all followed their example, there would be a lot less carted off to the landfill every day.