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Environment
Joshua Larsen, Associate Professor in Water Science, University of Birmingham

Beavers can do wonders for nature – but we should be realistic about these benefits extending to people

The potential role of beavers in safeguarding against climate change risks has become an interesting point of discussion RudiErnst/Shutterstock

The beaver is a unique ecosystem engineer that can create a landscape that would otherwise not exist, thanks to the animal’s ability to build dams. As we experience more frequent heatwaves and drought, the potential role of beavers in safeguarding against these risks has captured widespread attention.

Beaver habitats are claimed to lower local stream and air temperatures, and by maintaining water supplies, provide insurance against drought. Greater water storage may also improve the resilience of a landscape towards wildfire.

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