Beavers: the solution to the drought?

With no sign of the California drought coming to an end anytime soon, researchers and water wonks are looking for the latest, most innovative ideas to help solve the severe drought. According to a study conducted by the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NFSC), beavers may be the answer to California’s water shortage.

Because beavers build dams that slow the flow of water from streams and rivers to the ocean, researchers believe the strategic placement of beavers could help with the lack of water. When the water that would normally flow to the ocean is slowed down, underground aquifers are able to recharge themselves, meaning the recharged aquifers can provide adequate drinking water and habitats for various animals.

Officials at the Department of Fish and Wildlife are uneasy about the thought of introducing beavers in new areas. Their biggest reason: beavers are considered a nuisance species, primarily because their dams can block roadways, flood properties and cause other severe damage.

While the dams built by beavers have the potential to help with the short-term drought problem, there may be severe long-term effects of introducing beavers to a new habitat. One main problem: if the bodies of water the beavers are introduced to dry up, they could eventually relocate.