Jeffslodigarden

ALLi Author Member

I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t involved in shepherding a living being through the phases of life: from catching tadpoles in the creek and watching them grow in plastic containers, keeping my first goldfish alive, to caring for my pet rat Sniffles. Growing up in the suburbs of San Francisco, California I spent my days outside, creating my own entertainment, experiencing the free-range childhood as a child of the 70s and 80s. Whether building forts, exploring the nearby creek, swimming, playing soccer, or running track, I was my best when outdoors and active.

I was especially captivated by fish, how they breathe and move. I found a way to bring the outdoors — and nature — inside by collecting large freshwater fish in aquariums, eventually amassing a school of them, kept in multiple tanks, in every inch of my bedroom. Curiosity is why I was destined to become a biologist, given my fascination with the world around me and the creatures within it.

I am a professional fish biologist, where I lead a large office in the Valley of California to restore habitat for native fish, monitor fish populations, and produce peer-reviewed literature.

I discovered the hobby of giant pumpkin growing in 2017 and was hooked on the fun and challenge. I started taking notes about practices. The notes turned to chapters and the chapters turned into a book to help others experience this fulfilling hobby.