Where I grew up in Ashland Oregon, where deer roamed the streets, ranging from young fawns and their doe mothers to prized bucks. My weekends consisted of feeding the ducks at Lithia Park and running from the two mean geese that rested there as well. I would spend every morning feeding blue jays, to watch them stow away the shelled peanuts for winter. In the backyard, I had a strained relationship with the racoons, between their eating on my fish, my tortoise, and my marshmallows, we were always at odds with one another. Looking back on my childhood, I now realize that local wildlife had a major influence upon who I am now and who I strive to be in my future. I also recognize the future problems we face due to our rise in technology and the disconnection it creates.
Growing up with hunters in my family, I recognize the importance of this heritage and the future generations’ right for its continuation. Hunting has always entailed treating the animal humanely and with respect, not wasting any part of its sacrifice. As a child, fishing with my grandfather was bonding time. We only
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This worries me due to the currently arising environmental issues that animals and the natural world are facing. Statistics clearly show the growing disconnect between children and nature due to the rise of technology. On average, American children ages 6 to 11 spend about 30 hours a week in front of the TV or a computer; they spend only 30 minutes outside now (Kimbell). Kids seem to be growing up in a different reality, estranged from nature, without the sense of awe and wonder most of us experienced as we played and worked outside. Without a connection to nature, it is difficult for them to appreciate its value. Without this understanding, the next generation will not be interested in, or properly prepared to, rise to the challenges of today and the