Johanna Silver
WATER Institute Communications and Project Manager
As the Communications and Project Manager with The WATER Institute, Johanna’s job is to build enthusiasm around beaver, process-based restoration, and other WATER Institute programs. Translating environmental issues into layman’s terms is her sweet spot, honed by many years as a writer and editor in the publishing industry. Johanna’s work has appeared in countless publications and she has several gardening books under her belt. She lives and works (and gardens) in Berkeley, CA.
On Staff Since: 2023 Email >
In Their Own Words
My Background:
I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, very much a city girl. During college I became interested in food and farming, eventually moving west to work in sustainable agriculture. In time, I landed at Sunset Magazine, where I started as test garden coordinator (designing and building small gardens for publication in the magazine) and culminated as Garden Editor.
My Work at OAEC:
It’s my job to work with Brock and Kate to build awareness and acceptance of beaver and process-based restoration among the general public, landowners, restoration professionals and resource agencies.
Why My Work Matters:
I’m helping others by sparking enthusiasm around restoring our watersheds. Given life depends on water, it doesn’t get much better than that.
My Hero
My grandma Rose, who survived the Holocaust and went on to be a soft, loving, adoring grandmother.
My passions
Dancing and gardening, specifically: weeding.
When my life is over I want to be remembered for
My sense of humor.
