Speaker: Norine Ambrose, Executive Director of Cows and Fish.

Date: Wednesday 11th Feb 2026

Location: Helen Schuler Nature Centre

Abstract of talk: Beavers are recognized as a keystone species in our ecosystems, but are often treated as pest species, due to flooding of culverts, tree removal, and other negative interactions with people and our infrastructure. I will debunk some myths and misconceptions about beavers and fish, water quality, and beaver behavior. In numerous parts of North America, beavers are being used as tools for fish restoration, watershed health improvement, and increased overall resiliency of natural and human-altered landscapes. This presentation will showcase a few case studies where beavers are being used for restoration, including Alberta examples where co-existence techniques and beaver mimicry have been implemented to address conflicts and support water and drought resiliency. I will discuss the ecological role beavers play in relation to watersheds and our collaborative efforts to educate landowners, municipalities and others, while providing practical tools to address real world challenges these busy rodents sometimes create.