Beavers help restore water to western US ecosystems
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In Wyoming and Utah, people are working with beavers to combat drought and climate change.
Jackson Ramsay welcomed beavers to his southwest Wyoming ranch, observing how their dams create ponds and support plant life. Scientists and conservation groups are now assisting beavers by building “preliminary dams”, structures of wood and branches, to encourage them to settle in areas damaged by drought. These beaver-built dams slow water flow, increasing local water availability throughout the year.
This creates habitats for native fish and birds and provides a natural defense against wildfires. Trout Unlimited has constructed around 500 preliminary dams in streams feeding into the Green River, a major tributary of the Colorado River. The Center for Biological Diversity supports these efforts, noting beavers’ unique ability to help fight climate change.
While beaver dams can sometimes cause flooding that impacts infrastructure, the Utah State University operates a program to relocate beavers from private land to remote areas where they can benefit ecosystems. The state also incentivizes non-lethal capture and relocation of beavers, and restricts commercial trapping in some areas, recognizing the importance of protecting beaver populations.
