Stephen P. Kunz

Senior Ecologist - Schmid & Company, Inc.

Jul 23, 2009

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

I can't think of just one. Every time I go on a hike, or walk in the woods, or go camping, I get a better appreciation of the natural world.

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

The woods behind my house, and the undeveloped park 2 blocks away. Now it is anyplace where evidence of human disturbance (roads, buildings, etc.) is least.

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

Eagles, hawks, condors. I think they are beautiful and graceful.

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?

Right now: climate change, due to burning fossil fuels. It is causing so many little and huge problems. Future: I worry most about loss of woodlands and loss of clean water.

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

Get out of your car, turn off your cell phone, and visit/enjoy as many of the following as possible(especially if you have never been there before): the ocean/beach, a mountain lake, a desert, a prairie, a farm, a forest, a wetland, a river/stream, a mountain. Here in the US we are so fortunate to have so many different kinds of ecosystems. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience every one of them at some time in their life. It is only by experiencing the natural world first-hand that we can get a better understanding of what we have and what we stand to lose if we are not careful.