Dave Johnson is a Zookeeper from Denver, Colorado. He has been working with the pachyderm collection there since 1998, but his career actually encompasses so much more. Dave has written three conservation books for kids, all focusing on the protection and passion it takes to save other species from extinction. He leads people on treks to Nepal, climbs mountains for rhinos, runs marathons for elephants, and spreads his love for animals everywhere. He has Tuesdays and Wednesdays off from the zoo to teach others about his lifelong pursuit. Dave is creating the next generation of passionate people to make a difference for our planet and the animals we share it with.
His books are focused on a little Colorado girl named Sissy Sally Sassafras who loves animals too. She is bound and determined to enlighten others about the plight of rhinos, elephants, and the other wildlife in her region and beyond. Dave uses Sissy Sally as his little animal nerd with the huge heart and even bigger voice. She has something to say about where we are headed, and Dave works tirelessly to promote this shared passion.
Dave now uses the books for schools, scouts, sports teams and churches for their fundraising efforts and is trying to get them sold in every state. Now, these organizations can sell conservation instead of cookies, preservation instead of popcorn. Half of the profits go directly back to these empowered “Rhino Warriors”, an elite team that is making a difference. Dave loves to visit with others and bring this new culture to animal lovers everywhere. Have him out to speak about what we can all do together to save our remaining ecosystems and all of the creatures they contain.
He began a non-profit called the Katie Adamson Conservation Fund back in 2014, in honor of one of his zoo explorers who passed away from cancer. With Katie’s parents support and the backing of his Denver community they are now moving forward as a herd of animal nerds making a stand for wildlife around the globe.
Let Dave and Sissy Sally Sassafras be part of your movement!
