Pocatello, Idaho Couple Behind Decades of Community Events and Animal Programs Announces Move to Florida
After 20 years of animal rescue, family-friendly festivals, and hands-on educational programs, a well-known Pocatello couple is preparing to say goodbye to southeast Idaho. Nikki and Frank Jorgenson announced they will leave Pocatello in June and relocate to Florida, closing a chapter that touched thousands of residents across the region.
The Jorgensons built their community presence through multiple ventures operating under the SRD banner, including Snake River Doodles, SRD’s Traveling Animals, SRD’s Wild Reptile Adventure, SRD’s Haunted Attractions, and SRD’s Pocatello Events. Their work brought animals, education, and entertainment to families throughout Bannock County and beyond.
Two Decades of Service to Bannock County
Over the course of their time in Pocatello, the Jorgensons made community service a cornerstone of their work. Nikki Jorgenson said the family provided free animal therapy visits to nursing homes and others in need, and operated a dog program that produced more than 500 working service animals — a significant contribution to the region’s quality of life.
Their animal rescue and sanctuary took in more than 5,000 animals over the past 20 years, and the couple brought hands-on learning experiences directly to dozens of local schools. Their traveling petting zoo was a familiar presence at the Portneuf Valley Farmers Market for more than a decade, becoming a beloved fixture for families throughout the growing season.
Community events organized by the Jorgensons became regional staples, including Southeast Idaho Days, Pocatello Kids Day, seasonal festivals, holiday celebrations, and haunted attractions that drew crowds each fall. The couple also raised five children in Pocatello, four of whom are now grown, making their two decades here as much a personal story as a professional one.
For families who have attended Pocatello’s downtown community events in recent years, the Jorgensons’ presence has been a consistent thread — connecting neighbors through shared experiences centered on animals, fun, and local pride.
Health Concerns and Rising Costs Drive the Decision
The Jorgensons’ departure follows a difficult stretch. Last summer, the family was displaced by a fire, an event that forced them to rebuild while continuing their community commitments. Despite efforts to resettle in Pocatello, a combination of health concerns and rising costs ultimately led the couple to make the difficult decision to leave Idaho.
“Unfortunately, we have come to the decision that we have finished our stay in Idaho,” Nikki Jorgenson said. “For health and financial purposes, all of our events will end soon, and we will relocate to Florida in June.”
Their story reflects a challenge many Idaho families know well: the pressure of rising living costs in a state that has seen significant economic change over the past several years. While Idaho remains a desirable destination for newcomers, long-time residents like the Jorgensons have at times found those same pressures difficult to absorb, particularly after unexpected hardships.
Whether the couple will continue hosting public events after arriving in Florida remains uncertain, but Nikki confirmed their work rescuing exotic animals will continue regardless of location.
Final Events Before Departure
Several farewell events are scheduled before the Jorgensons leave southeast Idaho. An Adult Prom is planned for this Saturday at the Elks Lodge in Pocatello. SRD’s Wild Reptile Adventure will hold its final show in Preston this weekend as well.
The capstone event will be Southeast Idaho Days, set for May 1 and 2 at the Bannock County Event Center. The two-day celebration will feature a pet show and an inflatable carnival, and the Jorgensons have indicated it will serve as their official farewell to the community.
“Southeast Idaho Days will be our last event where we’ll say our final goodbyes,” Nikki Jorgenson said.
As preparations continue for their move, the Jorgensons expressed deep gratitude for the two decades of support they received from Pocatello residents and the broader Bannock County community.
“We want to let the public know that we are leaving and say ‘thank you for having us in Pocatello,'” Nikki said. “It has been a lot of fun.”
Community members looking for other upcoming local events can also find information on the SPEAK documentary fundraiser scheduled for April 22, which reflects the kind of grassroots community engagement the Jorgensons helped cultivate in Pocatello over two decades.
What Comes Next
Southeast Idaho Days on May 1 and 2 at the Bannock County Event Center will mark the Jorgensons’ final public event in Pocatello. Following that gathering, the couple plans to complete their relocation to Florida in June. Their animal rescue work is expected to continue in some form after the move. Residents wishing to attend the farewell events or say goodbye in person can look for details through SRD’s local event listings.