An Online Presentation by Oregon Wild

Join Ben Goldfarb, author of "Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter" for the first of our Oregon Wild Wednesdays on the Web series. Goldfarb's presentation will explore how the modern idea of what a healthy landscape looks like and how it functions is wrong, distorted by the fur trade that once trapped out millions of beavers from North America's waterways. The consequences of losing beavers were profound: ponds drained, wetlands dried up, and species from salmon to swans lost vital habitat. Goldfarb will discuss the growing coalition of “Beaver Believers”—including scientists, ranchers, and passionate citizens— who recognize that ecosystems with beavers are far healthier, for humans and non-humans alike, than those without them. Learn about one of the world's most influential species, how North America was colonized, how our landscapes have changed over the centuries, and how beavers can help us fight drought, flooding, wildfire, extinction, and the ravages of climate change.

The presentation will also feature Danielle Moser, Wildlife Program Coordinator for Oregon Wild, who will give an update on beavers in Oregon. Moser will also discuss how reforming the policies and culture of agencies like the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is integral to allowing keystone species like beavers to thrive on the landscape.