The BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) and its partners are working to restore beaver populations and local ecosystems by creating artificial beaver dams. The initiative, which aims to restore vital freshwater habitats across the province by building artificial dams, is part of the 10,000 Wetlands Project.

According to My East Kootenay Now, since the project’s launch, more than 70 beaver dams have been constructed in Interior waterways, with plans to build 100 by the end of 2025. These “beaver dam analogues” are made from locally sourced mud, branches, and untreated wood posts to mimic natural beaver dams. Teams have worked to install these structures across various regions, including the East Kootenays.

Inspired by a similar initiative in Oregon, the manmade dams help create year-round wetlands, slow and store water, and promote the growth of beaver populations. They also provide crucial habitat for salmon and trout species.

“Beavers, and the restoration work inspired by them, provide important ecosystem benefits that have been lost or damaged over time.” Jennifer Rogers, project lead at BCWF, says, “During our fieldwork, we’ve come across many areas that show signs of historic beaver activity but without active beavers on site are now in decline.”