We bought this land over twenty years ago and at that time the field was covered in sagebrush. One narrow string of willows marked the creek that wandered through the top end of this field. Next thing we knew, the beaver population increased. They built dams and backed up water over several acres on the top end of this field. Over time, their dams raised the entire floodplain, creating small sub-irrigated meadows behind the beaver dams.  Consequently, the brush was flooded out and grass flourished. Now we have small meadow areas outlined by brush.

Having beaver in meadows on the mountain works for us. They are part of the natural habitat. Essentially beaver dams expand the wetlands area; improving habitat not only for water fowl, but also game fowl and larger wildlife, such as deer and elk.

Don't get me wrong, beaver are a detriment in certain areas. They wreak havoc in irrigation ditches and canals. Beavers are tireless workers and it doesn't take long for the dams they build to divert water from crops. However, in areas where they are not effecting rancher's or farmer's crops they can be quite beneficial.