By slowing down and spreading out waterways, research shows beaver dams significantly reduce wildfire burn severity.

Maureen Thompson, director of conservation for the nonprofit Think Wild, said when it comes to wildfire prevention, beaver ponds are a big help.

“That means we have late-season water for wildlife and for fire breaks. Firefighters in the Ochocos know where the big beaver ponds are and literally send the helicopters there to get big buckets of water to put out the fire,” Thompson explained.

Intense fires delayed beaver restoration work this summer, Thompson pointed out, so Think Wild is now calling for fall volunteers to help build starter dams and survey beaver activity across Central and Eastern Oregon, with dozens of volunteer days planned.

Scientists know beaver populations are generally growing in the state, Thompson noted, but research about how to use public lands to support them is lacking, making volunteer data collection essential. She stressed taking an active role in wildlife conservation is not just helpful for the beavers.

“People can see that they are changing the world for the better and that sense of agency and hope is so important, especially now. And it’s also just really fun,” Thompson emphasized.

Oregon’s “Beaver Bill” came into effect in 2024, which encourages coexistence with the tail-slapping rodents. The law mandates landowners must first try nonlethal deterrents to be rid of them and must get a permit before killing them. Thompson called the bill exciting because it codifies the important role the animals play in creating cleaner water, as well as habitat for other wildlife.