Activity 2.3.1 Ranchers, Anglers, and Beavers

    Exploratory  

The article and video discuss how grazing and beavers can help restore streamside vegetation. Key facts include the role of beavers in creating wetlands, which improves water quality and habitat for various species. Grazing can help manage vegetation growth, preventing overgrowth that can harm the ecosystem. This aligns with other studies showing that natural processes can enhance ecological restoration.


   Diagnostic  

The restoration occurs due to the interplay between natural processes and human intervention. Grazing reduces invasive plant species, while beavers create dams that slow water flow, allowing sediment to settle and promoting diverse plant growth. These actions are essential for maintaining healthy streamside ecosystems.


   Cause and Effect  

If beavers are reintroduced to an area, then the creation of wetlands occurs, leading to improved biodiversity and water quality. This relationship highlights the importance of natural species in ecosystem management.


   Priority  

The most important issue is the need for sustainable ecological practices that integrate natural processes, like grazing and the presence of beavers, to restore and maintain healthy ecosystems.


  Application  

This applies to my understanding of environmental management, showing how integrating natural species can be more effective than traditional restoration methods. It relates to our studies on the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance.


  Critical  

This information challenged my previous assumptions about restoration methods, making me realize the value of natural processes in ecosystem management. It highlighted the need to consider ecological relationships rather than solely relying on human intervention.

              

                                                           References 


Fesenmyer, K. (2016). Restoring streamside vegetation using grazing and beavers. Trout Unlimited. https://www.tu.org/magazine/science/restoring-streamside-vegetation-using-grazing-and-beavers 

Fesenmyer, K. A, Dauwalter, D. C., Evans, C., & Allai, T. (2018). Livestock management, beaver, and climate influences on riparian vegetation in a semi-arid landscape. PLoS ONE 13(12). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0208928 



  

      

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