Artificial beaver dams are a recent addition to the desert restoration toolbox. Where trees have disappeared along stream-sides, beavers lack materials to build dams that can survive flood surges. But, if restoration managers provide a superstructure of deeply sunk vertical posts, then cane, brush and grass can be placed within the framework. Such a dam will withstand floods. With a viable dam, the pond is established and beavers can be reintroduced. Experience has shown that beavers readily adopt these dams, raising them as needed provided the vertical structure is periodically reinforced.
As discussed in this video, artificial ‘beaver’ dams will also work in desert gullies where it is not possible to create a permanent pond.
In Far-West Texas, an Artificial Beaver Dam Repairs a Desert Gully – and Reverses Erosion
