Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks is an avid supporter and volunteer for The Nature Conservancy’s Idaho program. (Photo © Mark Godfrey/TNC)

Growing up in northern California has had a big influence on my love and respect for the outdoors. As a boy I’d often spend my days biking on riverbeds and arroyos and come home exhausted. I realize now how much I took for granted having the natural world so close at hand. For me there is nothing better than enjoying the outdoors.

Unfortunately, I have witnessed in my lifetime a great loss of wilderness areas. I hope that the world gains an appreciation for what’s here and does everything it can to protect it. I want for my children and all of their children to enjoy the same wonders I experienced as a boy.