Naiman et al. reviewed research conducted in Quebec, Minnesota, Montana, and Alaska, to create a representative review of northern regions. Beavers (Castor canadensis) have been part of the riparian ecosystem for centuries. The dams they build have the ability to help restore original function to riparian zones by trapping sediment; they also create patch bodies, which includes the pond, the aerobic soil beneath the pond and the anaerobic soil below that plays a role in the carbon and nitrogen cycle. It has been shown that beaver have a large effect on the distribution of nitrogen and the amount of stored carbon in the ecosystem. Surrounding vegetation is also modified by the presence of beaver. Although, beaver were more prevalent than they are today, their induced alterations to drainage networks are not localized or unusual.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.