Deep in the forests of British Columbia, a single beaver dam has captured global attention for its quiet but powerful impact on the environment. Built entirely without human intervention, this intricate structure managed to withstand heavy rainfall, slowing the flow of water and trapping sediment and pollutants before they could wash downstream. At first glance, it might … [Read more...] about Nature’s Engineers: How Beavers Naturally Protect Rivers and Fight Pollution
ecosystem restoration
How Adorable Sea Otters Are Saving California’s Ecosystem by Battling Invasive Species
SAN FRANCISCO – A California ecosystem has gotten a big boost from an adorable, fluffy and hungry friend. At Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, a newly-reinvigorated population of native southern sea otters has eaten so many invasive European green crabs that researchers say the otters have locally solved a problem that has plagued the West Coast for … [Read more...] about How Adorable Sea Otters Are Saving California’s Ecosystem by Battling Invasive Species
Scientists Dropped Gophers Onto Mount St Helens For 1 Day. 40 Years Later, The Effect Is Astonishing
In a surprising twist of fate, a group of gophers played a crucial role in the ecological recovery of Mount St Helens after its devastating 1980 eruption. A Day Trip with a Lasting Impact Shortly after the eruption, scientists embarked on an unconventional experiment. They introduced gophers to the barren landscape, hoping to accelerate the recovery process. These … [Read more...] about Scientists Dropped Gophers Onto Mount St Helens For 1 Day. 40 Years Later, The Effect Is Astonishing