The Story of McKee

Finding a Better Path Forward for the McKee Jungle Gardens Preservation Society.

Years ago, my marketing firm was approached by the McKee Jungle Gardens Preservation Society with a challenge that appeared headed toward confrontation.

A multi-family residential developer had acquired the property that once housed the historic McKee Jungle Gardens tourist attraction and was considering plans to replace the shuttered attraction with condominium development. The Preservation Society sought assistance in developing a promotional campaign designed to rally public opposition and discourage the proposed redevelopment.

After evaluating the situation, I asked the Society's Board to consider a different approach.

Rather than creating a campaign that would pit the community against the developer, I suggested exploring whether a solution could be found that would serve the interests of both. While such an outcome appeared unlikely at first glance, the Board agreed that the opportunity was worth investigating.

Following extensive research and preparation, we developed a business case for preservation that could make economic sense not only to the community but also to the property's owners and potential development interests. With this framework in place, discussions were initiated with representatives of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Trust for Public Land.

As those conversations evolved, additional support emerged from the Junior League of Vero Beach and Indian River County. Together, a vision began to take shape. Through a land trust mechanism and broad community collaboration, a plan was developed to transform the former Jungle Gardens attraction into the McKee Botanical Garden.

The outcome proved that preservation and economic interests need not be opposing forces.

The developer achieved the financial return sought from its investment. The community preserved an irreplaceable historic landmark. Residents and visitors gained a beautiful recreational, cultural, and educational destination that continues to enrich the region today.

Perhaps even more significant was the long-term impact that followed. The collaborative efforts surrounding the preservation initiative helped inspire broader conservation efforts throughout the region. The Indian River Land Trust subsequently preserved thousands of acres of environmentally significant land, protecting valuable natural resources while enhancing the quality of life for future generations.