In honor of Joseph Rock:
Joseph Rock was one of the early botanists in Hawaii, in the Linnaean tradition. In 1913 he published, Indigenous Trees of Hawaii. The book, although out of print, is considered to be the bible of Hawaiian botany. In it he describes not only individual species of endemic Hawaiian plants, but he also described the ecosystems in which they were found. This is very important today because 100 years later many of the ecosystems are altered to such an extent that we use the book to inform our present-day restoration work.
Rock was also a wonderful photographer. He photographed the trees and plants of Hawaii. This is invaluable because it shows the stature of trees that no longer exist and species that are so rare today that it is difficult to imagine them thriving in their natural habitats.
This garden is named after Rock as a way to honor him and to always remember the beginnings of botanical work in Hawaii.
Jill Wagner, Founder of JRA, Forester, Seed bank specialist:
As the founder of Future Forests Nursery on Hawaiʻi Island, and the founding director of the Hawaiʻi Island Seed Bank; reforestation and seed banking are my life’s work, which involves a deep commitment to supporting the health of our planet. I believe that communities should lead their forestry projects and receive the support they need to nurture new forests and keep existing forests standing for future generations. I have been doing native forest restoration in various ecosystems for several decades.
I help international forestry partners create the foundation for their projects that will serve them as they build on their aspirations to heal the planet. It is important that we protect the biodiversity of our region, and we need to know the principles and practices to achieve success on a professional level. This way we will achieve the results of establishing healthy ecosystems that will endure for the next generation and beyond. The work can be conducted with joy, stimulation, learning, and collaboration. This approach heals us, and heals the planet.
I cultivate key strategic partnerships to grow and strengthen the movement that affirms all life. This includes Governments, non-profits, and private landowners to develop strategies for conservation planning, including gender equity concerns and climate justice. I have developed projects in Vietnam, South America, Africa, Central Asia, India, and the United States. My focus is on biodiversity conservation, economic integrity, and sustainable development.
Jay Toriano, has been conducting land management for decades in Hawaii. He has expertise in the creation and management of fruit farms, native ecosystems restoration, and team management. He has been working with Future Forests Nursery since 2011 and co-accepted the 2020 Forester of the Year award from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). He has conducted numerous trainings on weed cutting, irrigation, herbicide application, chipping, monitoring and maintenance. He is a lead driver for bulldozer, tractor, mower, chipper and sprayer, and holds a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) for large vehicles. In addition to land management he does irrigation installation and repair, fence repair as well as maintenance of tools and equipment. He works with organic farming methods.
Justin Tripp, has deeply rooted respect for native forests, natural farming and restoring native ecosystems. He is a restoration and seed bank specialist, and trainer for people throughout the world. He resides with his family in their off grid homestead where they farm food, flowers, and natural dye. He is an artist, musician, and alchemist working with natural indigo and natural dyes.
Andre Tavares has been working in farm management in Hawaii for several decades. He loves the land and is an expert in native Hawaiian forest restoration, and the management of coffee, mac nuts, and fruit orchards. He is a trusted caretaker of old growth forests, and a creator of new habitats.
Nathalie Westerberg, is a horticulturist, nursery technician and conducts native Hawaiian forest restoration. She also runs her own business in permaculture and organic gardening. She studied Environmental Science at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Candee L. Ellsworth, Science & Education
Candee is a dedicated conservationist and environmental educator with over 25 years of experience in wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, nonprofit leadership and community engagement. As the Executive Director of Keahole Center for Sustainability in Kailua Kona, Hawaii she leads initiatives promoting ocean conservation, responsible aquaculture and renewable energy. Candee also serves as the Assistant Executive Director and Program Leader for Uluha’o O Hualalai, where she connects communities to Hualalai’s natural and cultural resources through ‘aina stewardship.
Lisa Diaz, Administrative Assistant, Educator
Lisa volunteered as marine data collector for Hawaii Whale Research Foundation, and Hawaii Island Coordinator for NOAA Hawaii Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary, designing the first Hawaii Island Ocean counts. A dedicated educator, Lisa taught Biology, Earth, Physical & Marine Sciences and was Gifted/Talented, Robotics & Science Fair Coordinator at Kealakehe Intermediate School for 19 years, focusing on Hawaiian species conservation and marine biology. Lisa engaged studdents via outdoor activities, independent projects, and numerous field trips in Hawaii, US and Canada, motivating +3,000 students. Many former students are now pursuing science careers.
Russ Tapp, Concept materialization specialist, Site operations:
Russ is a master builder and he conducts all site maintenance. He is a person who can solve any problem. He has been a builder in California and Hawaii for decades.
Jeff Knowles, Community Engagement, Soil Scientist
Jeff has spent over 42 years working as a soil and water conservationist with extensive multi-state and international experience in natural resources management. Knowles started his career with the USDA’s Soil Conservation Service and spent the 1980’s in the State of Iowa working with grain producers. He transferred to Wisconsin and spent the 1990’s with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service working with dairy farmers. In 2002 Knowles transferred to the state of Hawaii and completed his career with the USDA working with farmers and ranchers in the Kona district of Hawaii Island. Upon his retirement Knowles has completed 19 short term International assignments assisting farmers with soil degradation problems associated with deforestation and poor land management. Knowles currently also serves as the chairperson for the Kona Soil and Water Conservation District.
Will Cape Volunteer: Will Cape has been supporting the efforts of Future Forests Nursery for many years, and now the Joseph Rock Arboretum. A retired school teacher, he enjoys to be active and care for nature. He sets the standard as a volunteer and is happy to share his work ethic with others who want to learn.
We partner with leading organizations:
Ka’ahahui ‘O Ka Nahelehele – Hawaii Island Seed Bank
Future Forests Nursery, LLC
Plant Extinction Prevention Program
US Fish & Wildlife Service
Hawaii Forest Industry Association
and many other awesome organizations!!