Beaver dams create green firebreaks in wildfire-prone areas.
Beaver dams slow floods, store water, and create firebreaks in wildfire-prone areas.
Why it matters
- Beavers' dams help combat droughts, floods, and wildfires.
- They support ecosystem resilience amid climate change.
By the numbers
- Studied 1,500+ beaver ponds across 40 streams in western U.S.
- Dam length, vegetation height, and stream power explain 74% of pond size variation.
The big picture
- Beaver wetlands create fire-resistant patches, aiding ecosystem recovery.
- Low-cost, natural solution for climate resilience.
- Beavers' ecological role is increasingly recognized.
What they're saying
- Experts note beaver dams reduce fire spread but can't stop large wildfires.
- Ontario officials see no need for beaver relocation due to abundant populations.
Caveats
- Large wildfires may overpower beaver dams.
- Effectiveness varies by landscape.
What’s next
- Further research could optimize beaver restoration efforts.