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CSU Researchers Develop Artificial Beaver Dams to Improve Sediment Quality

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Colorado State University researchers, led by Timothy Fegel, are investigating the impact of artificial beaver dams on sediment quality in post-wildfire watersheds. The team has built two types of dams: post-assisted log structures (PALs) and beaver dam analogs (BDAs). These structures aim to slow down water flow and sediment transport, potentially reducing downstream water quality concerns. The researchers are monitoring both types of dams, collecting data on water quality conditions before and after restoration sites are established.

Key Takeaways:

  • The researchers are studying the impact of artificial beaver dams on sediment quality in post-wildfire watersheds, with a focus on the Cache la Poudre River.
  • Two types of dams are being used: post-assisted log structures (PALs) and beaver dam analogs (BDAs).
  • The structures aim to slow down water flow and sediment transport, potentially reducing downstream water quality concerns.
  • Researchers are monitoring both types of dams, collecting data on water quality conditions before and after restoration sites are established.
  • The study is being led by Timothy Fegel, a research chemist for the United States Forest Service and CSU soil and crop sciences doctoral candidate.
  • Aleah Hahn, a doctoral candidate in civil engineering, is using drones to capture aerial imagery and quantify sediment storage.
  • William James, a soil and crop sciences doctoral candidate, is examining the microbiological effects of the structures on stream chemistry.

Statistics:

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  • Post-wildfire landscape mobilizes sediment into streams, increasing export of carbon, phosphorus, and nitrogen from burned hillsides.
  • The artificial beaver dams have been added to the waterway almost a year ago, with not enough data yet to draw long-term conclusions.

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