Dave D.

Grad. student - Southern Illinois University

Jul 22, 2009

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

My time working at eco-resorts in the Bahamas and on the island of Dominica. It is amazing to still be able to find such beautiful stretches of nature that have been left relatively unblemished by the hands of man. Places like those keep me hopeful that we may not feed our hunger for development and expansion to every corner of the earth.

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

As a child, I enjoyed camping trips throughout northern Michigan. Those trips planted the seed of environmental conservation and appreciation in me. Now, my favorite place would have to be the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, though I simply love sitting in the grass in my backyard and gazing at the sky.

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

Amphibians in general; more specifically, the Sierra Nevada Mountain Yellow-legged frog. Predominantly because that is what I am currently studying and because they are declining rapidly--I would be heartbroken to see them follow the paths of some of the other unfortunate species of frogs.

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?

Water. I believe it is vastly underestimated behind climate change, energy issues, etc. Our accessibility to clean water will become the pressing issue of this century.

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

Respect and cherish it/them. If you don't, no one may never get the chance to again.