Anonymous

Private Citizen

Jul 23, 2009

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

Trees. I recently moved from the city to an area with large full-grown trees. The minute I drove through their shadows, something in me seemed to relax. Our race most likely evolved with trees, and I do not think it far-fetched that we react and respond to them so well. Ever see a person in a forest or park? Relaxed. and they take deep breaths.

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

Great Falls National Park, in Virginia. Wow! Now I live in an area with rabbits and squirrels in my back yard, deer, woodpeckers.

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

The Great Horned Owl. I used to work with the Raptor Conservancy in Virginia. Mostly cleaning cages, but these animals are impressive, and WILD. Huge beaks, almost soundless in flight. I love all raptors, but owls are my favs.

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 we are now poisoning OURSELVES. Drugs and poisons can be found in all our foodstuffs and in our water. It is my personal belief that Americans are getting fat from being poisoned. I just lost 40 pounds after I went on an organic foods only diet, and started drinking only distilled or reverse osmosis water (with some minerals put back in). I NEVER cook with or drink tap water, and I have a shower filter. Those have been the only changes for me. 40 pounds!!!

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

Do everything you can to support those trying to help and clean up the earth. It's essential.