Beavers as Engineers

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 biodiversity. 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.

Are you ready to request an ECO Kit to loan? Here is some important information:

• These kits are offered FREE for Washington County Educators. All of our ECO kits are supplied with necessary materials and instructions for each activity. If you are missing any supplies, please let us know!
• Standard loan time is 2 weeks. If you feel like you need more time, please indicate that on your request form.
• We ask that you 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 Kristina Peterson.