During his hiatus, Richard has been enjoying the outdoors by skiing, river rafting, and scuba diving. He took a moment from his holiday to check in with his office, and to share his continued passion for the environment. Millions of acres of woodland forests and waters in the US have been designated as protected. Richard encouraged people to register their support for these protected areas by contacting the White House and their state and local government officials, to voice their concern for the environment and to urge that these wilderness areas remain protected from industry. The White House can be contacted directly through the official website, or by mail, email, phone, or fax.