Today we’d like to introduce you to John Rossi.
Hi John, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
As a trained field biologist and veterinarian, I was out west researching snakes, when I sat down to rest in an oasis at Joshua Tree National Park. While there, I heard the most wonderful and relaxing rustling sound above me. The sound was that of a California Fan Palm blowing in the wind. I was hooked! I said that I needed to get a palm or two. Over 450 species of palms later, I found myself owning the largest collection of palms in Northern Florida! At the urging of many visitors, we formed a 501(c)3 non-profit called the St. Johns Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve. We have now been open for 2 and a half years and have become Florida’s northernmost tropical Botanical Garden.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Converting the Garden from a private to a “public” (non-profit) one was not an easy task. Politics and permits entered the process, as in any project of this size. Trying to improve trails and signage was a massive undertaking. Hiring the right people and gathering a small army of dedicated volunteers took time. Mother Nature set us back with hurricanes or hard freezes. And our young age precluded us from applying for grants. But through it all, we persist and continue to grow and improve!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have been a practicing veterinarian in Jacksonville for over 40 years and have written numerous books and articles on animal care. I am known for treating exotic animals but love to treat dogs and cats as well. I still practice to this day, which is why I am not always at the Garden.
Pricing:
- Adults : $15
- Seniors and Military : $10
- Children : 8 – 17 : $8, Under 8 : Free
- Membership (Annual): $75 Adults, $35 Seniors and Military
- Family: $100, Family and Friends: $200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stjohnsbotanicalgarden.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sjbgnp/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sjbgnp/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sjbgnp2023
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/st-johns-botanical-garden-and-nature-preserve-hastings?osq=garden
