Beavers for Sustainable Watersheds
During our visit to the Waterton Biosphere, we had the chance to explore the Waterton Reservoir and learn about watershed management in Alberta with the Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA).
We learnt about the detrimental effects of man-made irrigation canals on the ecosystem and local fish species. Cheryl Bradley, a biologist and cottonwood expert, explained that the construction of the dam destroyed eight kilometres of river, significantly reducing biodiversity and altering the landscape. Without tree cover or vegetation around the reservoir, and with no natural flood disturbances, fish populations and plant species like cottonwoods have sharply declined. Ironically, despite being built for water storage and flood control, the reservoir loses more water through evaporation than alternative methods due to its vast, exposed surface.
Cheryl Bradley tells us about history of the Waterton Reservoir
After our morning at the reservoir, we teamed up with Kirby England, Principal Wetland Ecologist at You Betula Environmental Inc., to explore a more sustainable approach to water storage. Kirby specialises in cost-effective solutions for managing beaver flooding while preserving the biodiversity of beaver-created wetlands. At a nearby ranch, he demonstrated a beaver deceiver, a device designed to manage water levels and prevent flooding without harming the beavers. This system includes a series of pipes and fencing that allows water to flow through beaver dams while keeping the dam structure intact and thereby stopping roads from being washed out. The beavers aren’t able to swim close enough to the pipe so they don’t know that the water is flowing through and therefore won’t dam the pipe. By controlling water levels in a way that satisfies both human needs and the beavers' natural behaviours, a balance is achieved, making these devices a long–term proactive solution to water management. As a result, a rich ecosystem thrives, with fish able to move through the dams freely and vegetation providing essential shade to reduce evaporation. This cooperative approach allows beavers to continue their vital role in the environment while mitigating potential conflicts with human infrastructure.
An example of a Beaver Deceiver in the Waterton Biosphere Region
Our journey ended with a visit to a beaver dam, where we saw first-hand how these resourceful creatures shape their environment. Unlike the Waterton Reservoir, the beaver-engineered wetlands featured small, shaded ponds that retain water more efficiently and support a variety of wildlife. Although, this did mean Kirby had to ferry us across a small waterway in a boat, but this just added to the fun of the experience! Beavers are considered a keystone species because of their significant impact on the ecosystem by shaping aquatic wetlands and supporting a wide variety of species in this new environments. By creating wetlands, beavers help filter sediments and pollutants from the water, improving overall water quality. The vegetation in these areas can also absorb excess nutrients, which benefits the surrounding environment. In addition to this, beavers help mitigate flooding by slowing down water runoff and reducing peak water levels during heavy rains. This natural flood control can protect nearby communities and ecosystems.
Kirby ferries us across the waterway in a boat while the cows watch on
About Alberta Wilderness Association
The Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) has been a voice for the environment for the past 60 years. Through conservation advocacy, research and education, community engagement and outdoor adventures, AWA makes a positive impact to wild species and spaces within the province of Alberta.
Another project we were introduced to while spending time with the AWA team was the future creation of wildlife corridors for Bison to move freely through-out Alberta, Saskatchewan and Montana. Wildlife corridors are essential for connecting fragmented habitats, allowing animals like bison to travel between populations and find food, water, and breeding areas.
Through their program "Adventures for Wilderness," AWA hosts outdoor activities that connect people with nature, promote conservation values, and foster a sense of stewardship for Alberta’s wilderness. We highly recommend joining them on one of their upcoming adventures within the Waterton Biosphere Region.
A beaver engineered wetland on private property within the Waterton Biosphere