Wayne Wakeland

Professor, Portland State Univ.

Today’s Date: July 19, 2008

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

I learned the true meaning of unconditional love (in my 40's) from our dog Jamie.

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

A place called the Jack Lakes in the interior of Alaska. We camped, hiked, kayaked, fished for Grayling, explored an old mine for several summers in the '50's. Never saw another human being while we were there (pretty remote).

Now? Nowadays it is the Oregon coast that continues to take my breath away.

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

We dearly loved our dogs and cats, and I could not pick between them; as for wild animals, my favorite is the Eagle.

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 right now, and for a long time to come. I'm also worked about our tinkering with genetics.

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

Leave anyplace you visit at least as beautiful and healthy it was when you arrived. That goes for wild places, your home, your community, every place.