Up Front With Sara Parker Pauley

I recently read a letter a dear friend wrote to his young grandchildren. It was a literary masterpiece. If my grandparents had penned something similar, I would treasure it beyond measure. It was a charge to take the long view — and included an indictment of the world today with its frequent focus on temporary gain regardless of future cost. He opined on their obligation to care for nature in all its forms, to steward our resources wisely as our lives depend upon their safekeeping.

One of the challenges of my job is to remember that the mission I am charged to uphold requires taking the long view, despite the immediate demands of the day. Yes, the mission includes providing ample opportunities to use and enjoy our resources today, but not at the expense of their long-term health and sustainability. And every day I am privileged to witness MDC staff and our partners applying their expertise and talents to ensure we deliver on that mission for the long-term. (Read about new tools State Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick is using to track migratory birds.)

Another famous grandfather gave a similar charge to the public, though generations ago. Teddy Roosevelt said, “Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.”

Sara Parker Pauley, Director
Sara.pauley@mdc.mo.gov