In recent years, the beaver population in the Cascadia area has fallen to just 5% of its historical levels. This loss has rippled across the landscape, leading to eroded stream banks, fewer essential in-stream woody materials, and reduced biodiversity in these vital ecosystems.
To combat this, Cascadia Conservation District has teamed up with local landowners and the Forest Service to install innovative man-made systems that replicate the natural benefits of beaver dams. So far, they’ve installed over 200 beaver dam analogs, planted 9,000 native plants along streambanks, and restored 2 miles of riparian habitat! These efforts are helping reconnect floodplains, improve stream health, and support thriving fish populations.
Jefferson County CD partnered with Spring Rain Farm to install multistory riparian buffers that protect wetlands while keeping the farm productive. It’s a working example of how restoration and agriculture can thrive together.
A short video from Pacific Conservation Districts shares how no-till farming is helping a local grower improve soil health, reduce costs, and protect water quality.
