We're excited to release new content in the Wetland Atlas of Alberta, a comprehensive open-access online report that brings together wetland mapping, human footprint, and species information in a convenient format. The newest chapter — The Ecological Role of Beavers in Alberta's Wetlands — highlights research by Dr. Glynnis Hood (Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta) and her collaborators on the vital role of beavers in Alberta's wetlands, exploring how they impact hydrology, biodiversity, and wetland connectivity.
Beaver-engineered ecosystems support rich biodiversity by providing habitat for a wide range of plants and animals. By modifying their surroundings, beavers create wetlands that are more resilient to environmental change, benefitting both ecosystems and human communities.