Levi Dawes, Owner

Levi has been part of Wildlife Habitat Nursery’s history for decades. He grew up around the nursery, originally founded by his father, Denny, and spent many summers learning about native plant production and accompanying the team to restoration sites. His connection to WHN began early—he even left his handprints in the concrete of Greenhouse #2 as a child in 1995.

Levi earned a Bachelor’s degree in Eco-Hydrological Engineering from the University of Idaho in December 2014. His professional experience includes the Idaho forest industry, agricultural engineering, hydrology, and CAD design. His background in engineering and restoration has contributed to projects ranging from greenhouse infrastructure improvements and irrigation system design to large-scale restoration efforts and native plant production.

In June 2017, Levi returned to Wildlife Habitat Nursery as Assistant Manager, where he helped oversee planting, shipping, willow harvest, seed collection, and daily nursery operations. In 2023, Levi and his father, Denny, completed the transition of ownership, allowing Levi to continue the legacy of the nursery that Denny began. Today, Levi oversees nursery operations and remains committed to providing high-quality, regionally adapted plants and dependable service for restoration projects throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Outside of work, Levi enjoys spending time with his wife, Kati, and their two children, Annie and Hayden. Together, they enjoy being outdoors through hunting, fishing, and exploring the places around them.

Hannah Barnes, Manager

Hannah joined Wildlife Habitat Nursery as a seasonal Nursery Technician in 2015. While attending high school and later earning her degree, she gained hands-on experience in nearly every aspect of nursery production, building a strong foundation in native plant propagation and nursery operations.

In 2022, Hannah earned a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and Crop Management from the University of Idaho. Following graduation, she joined the nursery full-time as Production Manager, where she expanded her expertise in Tall One container production and nursery management.

In 2024, Hannah was promoted to Nursery Manager. In her current role, she oversees daily nursery operations, including seed processing, 10 cubic inch container production, and order coordination, helping ensure the nursery continues to produce high-quality native plants for restoration projects throughout the region.

Outside of the nursery, Hannah enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, horseback riding, and trapshooting.

Dana McGreal, Lead Nursery Technician

Dana has been an essential part of Wildlife Habitat Nursery for more than 25 years. Throughout her time at WHN, she has developed extensive knowledge of native plant production and has helped refine many of the nursery’s production and cultural practices. Her experience includes tray cleaning and filling, sowing, thinning, trimming, plant care, and many other aspects of greenhouse production.

Dana’s hands have played a role in producing countless plants that have left WHN over the years. She has also become highly skilled in coordinating pulling, packing, shipping, and delivery operations, helping ensure orders are prepared accurately and efficiently. Her dedication, experience, and attention to detail have made her an invaluable part of the WHN team.

Outside of the nursery, Dana enjoys camping, side-by-side riding with her husband, and spending time with her three dogs—Gary, Rip, and Kasey. She takes great pride in her yard and flowers, putting the same care and attention into them that she brings to her work at the nursery.

Michael Kilborn, Nursery Technician III

Michael graduated from Potlatch Jr.-Sr. High School in May 2026 and joined the WHN team full time following graduation. Michael has quickly proven himself to be a capable and dependable member of the crew. He learns new skills quickly and works independently, taking on new tasks as he gains experience. Much of his work involves greenhouse maintenance and improvements, machine maintenance and repairs, grounds maintenance around the nursery, and plant moves. He has also taken on additional projects as needed and continues to expand his knowledge of both plants and the day-to-day operations of the nursery. WHN is excited to have Michael on the team and looks forward to seeing him continue to grow in his role.

Our Seasonal Team

In addition to our full-time staff, Wildlife Habitat Nursery relies on seasonal employees who contribute to many areas of nursery operations throughout the year. From greenhouse production and plant care to harvesting, order preparation, grounds maintenance, and facility upkeep, their hard work helps keep our nursery running efficiently and supports the quality plants our customers receive.