Bringing Mother Nature Back

Beavers are a keystone species—their return is a sign of success for restoration efforts in our region. Their presence is associated with natural beauty; new recreation opportunities; increased property values; and habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife.

And there are challenges, too, living with our state animal in suburban and urban areas of Oregon. After all, when beavers build, water patterns change. When they eat, trees are damaged. And when this occurs on residential, commercial or recreational property, there are potential problems for people. 

The good news is that we’re learning a lot about how to coexist with beaver—and beaver activity in the right location can save ratepayer dollars by performing natural flood storage and water quality treatment. Meanwhile, throughout the Tualatin River Watershed, partners are working together to ensure that homeowners, visitors and businesses receive the support they need to accommodate these changes. 

Watch “Bringing Mother Nature Back” to hear from Tree for All partners about the ongoing effort, which involves dozens of public and private organizations, and thousands of residents from all walks of life.

“It’s very beneficial to have this beaver activity in the system. That’s why we take so much time to work with these urban beavers and the residents around them who are experiencing this kind of change.”
— Carla Staedter, City of Tigard

What you can do:

    •    Get informed
    •    Know the options
    •    Make a plan
    •    Protect trees
    •    Prevent flooding

 
“The beaver, more than any other animal, is responsible for creating fertile landscapes across North America.”
— Nature (PBS)
 

Since 2005, regional partners have been collaborating to restore the Tualatin River Watershed.

Today, they are exploring what comes next.