Besides humans, beavers change their environment more than any other species on Earth! In this unit, students will participate in activities to understand how beavers, found all over North America and particularly important to the Pacific Northwest, act as engineers in their environment and have a significant affect on biodiversityBiodiversity The variety of species present.. This unit uses a hands-on approach to allow students to explore how beavers build dams and lodges for their habitats, while also studying ways in which beaver dams can change ecosystems by creating complex habitats. In addition, students look through multiple social and cultural lenses to gain a deeper understanding of humans’ relationship to beavers throughout time and the points of conflict and harmony between human and beaver habitats.
Kit details:
- Beavers as Engineers – NGSS Alignment
- Beavers as Engineers – Teacher Guide
- Beavers as Engineers – Unit Checklist
Important information about borrowing a kit:
- We offer these kits for free to Washington County Educators. All ECO kits are supplied with necessary materials and instructions. If you are missing any supplies, please let us know!
- Standard loan time is 3 weeks. If you need more time, please indicate that on your request form.
- Please arrange a time to pick-up your ECO kit at our office (7175 NE Evergreen Pkwy #400, Hillsboro, OR 97124) as well as a time to return it to our office. We may be able to arrange a staff member to bring the kit to you.
- Questions? Email Adriana Lovell.