Submission Type
Poster
Abstract
Beavers (Castor canadensis) are a keystone species whose dam-building activities influence hydrology, geomorphology, biogeochemical cycles, and ecosystem productivity. Once widespread across North America, their populations have declined due to over-trapping and habitat loss. Recognizing and preserving beaver habitats is essential for supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. This study aims to identify key features of beaver dams and associated ponds using publicly available satellite imagery and spatial analysis tools to support conservation efforts. We analyzed a subset of data from Collaborative Earth’s Beaver Lab, focusing on 894 beaver dam locations in the Tug Hill region of Lewis County, New York. Using ArcGIS Pro and data from Web Soil Survey, we assessed soil characteristics commonly associated with dam sites. Preliminary findings suggest consistent soil patterns at dam sites, indicating possible predictive relationships between soil type and dam location. These insights highlight the role of beavers as natural engineers—enhancing water retention, sediment redistribution, and riparian habitat diversity. Our results demonstrate the utility of remote sensing and GIS tools for identifying beaver habitats at the landscape scale, informing watershed restoration and land management strategies. By better understanding where and how beavers build, we can more effectively prioritize conservation actions and integrate their ecological benefits into climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration plans with Collaborative Earth.
Recommended Citation
Klimow, Skyler and Mirza, Aneesa, "071 - Beavers From Above: Identifying Keystone Habitats via Remote Sensing" (2025). GREAT Day Posters. 22.
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/great-day-symposium/great-day-2025/posters-2025/22
071 - Beavers From Above: Identifying Keystone Habitats via Remote Sensing
Beavers (Castor canadensis) are a keystone species whose dam-building activities influence hydrology, geomorphology, biogeochemical cycles, and ecosystem productivity. Once widespread across North America, their populations have declined due to over-trapping and habitat loss. Recognizing and preserving beaver habitats is essential for supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. This study aims to identify key features of beaver dams and associated ponds using publicly available satellite imagery and spatial analysis tools to support conservation efforts. We analyzed a subset of data from Collaborative Earth’s Beaver Lab, focusing on 894 beaver dam locations in the Tug Hill region of Lewis County, New York. Using ArcGIS Pro and data from Web Soil Survey, we assessed soil characteristics commonly associated with dam sites. Preliminary findings suggest consistent soil patterns at dam sites, indicating possible predictive relationships between soil type and dam location. These insights highlight the role of beavers as natural engineers—enhancing water retention, sediment redistribution, and riparian habitat diversity. Our results demonstrate the utility of remote sensing and GIS tools for identifying beaver habitats at the landscape scale, informing watershed restoration and land management strategies. By better understanding where and how beavers build, we can more effectively prioritize conservation actions and integrate their ecological benefits into climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration plans with Collaborative Earth.
Comments
Sponsored by Wendy Owens Rios