About the Series & Workshop

This speaker series, co-hosted by Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV), the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), Larimer Conservation District (LCD) and Rocky Mountain Flycasters (RMF) brings together experts, enthusiasts, and community members passionate about the important role beavers play in creating resilient ecosystems. In addition, learn about low-tech, process-based restoration projects in the Poudre Watershed that are improving habitat and encouraging the return of beavers.

The monthly speaker series, scheduled for February through September of 2026, will include presentations from leading experts in beaver ecology, conservation, and watershed management. We will learn about the ecological significance of beavers, their impact on water systems, and the crucial role they play in maintaining biodiversity.

During the summer, we will host in-person, hands-on tours to local beaver restoration projects and natural areas with active beavers, showcasing nature-based solutions to watershed restoration, including beaver mimicry techniques that benefit both people and wildlife.

Questions? Please email Megan Maiolo-Heath at megan@poudrewatershed.org

Schedule of Events

February 19 - “Beavers in Colorado: The Once & Future Ecosystem Engineers” with Dr. Ellen Wohl, Professor, Geosciences, Colorado State University

  • 6-8pm, Powerhouse Energy Campus, 430 N. College Ave., Fort Collins, CO, 80524 - meet in the 1st floor conference room to the right of the main entrance to the Powerhouse.

  • Learn about the beneficial effects of beavers, their historical presence in Colorado, decline, and current reintroduction in limited areas.

  • Dr. Ellen Wohl is a Professor of Geology and University Distinguished Professor at Colorado State University, recognized globally for her expertise in fluvial geomorphology, mountain hydrology, and river restoration. She is known for research on wood dynamics, carbon storage, and the role of "messy," heterogeneous rivers in ecological resilience. 

  • Registration is required! Click here to register.

March 12: “Beavers and Their Impacts on Fish” w/ Dr. Niall Clancy, Freshwater Ecologist

  • 6-8pm at Salt Road Brewing Co. (321 Old Firehouse Alley, Fort Collins, CO 80524)

  • Beavers and native fish co-evolved for literally millions of years, but with the Anthropocene era now in high gear how well do beavers and native fish coexist? What things should be considered when thinking about beavers and native fish? What role should humans play in ensuring the success of native wildlife like beavers and native fish? Come hear the good, the bad, and the ugly.

  • Registration coming soon!


April 16: “Chew on This: Colorado's Approach to Beaver Management” with Boyd Wright, Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW)

  • 6-8pm - Location TBD

  • For decades, beavers were seen as a problem. Now, they are being recognized as a keystone species essential to Colorado's climate strategy. We’ll explore the new statewide Beaver Conservation and Management Strategy (BCMS), covering everything from translocation protocols to cutting-edge coexistence techniques. Join us to discuss how to live with, protect, and empower these aquatic eco system engineers.

  • Registration coming soon!

May 21: Webinar - Policy Updates & Regulatory Considerations with Jackie Corday, Natural Resources Consultant

  • ZOOM - 6-8pm - Location TBD

  • More and registration coming soon!

June 25: Beavers & Wildfire w/ Dr. Emily Fairfax

  • 6-8pm - Location TBD

  • More and registration coming soon!

July: Beaver Believers! Nature Hike

  • Date/Time TBD - McMurry Natural Area, Fort Collins, CO

  • This filed trip will explore areas of the Poudre River that have active beaver, highlighting the benefits of these amazing rodents to local ecology and river health. Every kid will receive a free Poudre River Investigator Guide to take home!

  • FREE & Open to the public - More and registration coming soon!

August: Elkhorn Creek Beaver Restoration Tour

  • Join the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW) and Larimer Conservation District for a tour of a stream restoration project on Elkhorn Creek. Learn about process-based restoration techniques that are improving habitat, reconnecting floodplains and encouraging the return of beavers to the landscape.

  • Time/Date TBD

  • Location: Ben Delatour Scout Ranch, Red Feather Lakes, CO

  • More and registration coming soon!

September: Stream Restoration on Tribal Lands of the Southwest

  • James Calabaza, Indigenous Lands Program Director, Trees, Water & People

  • 6-8pm - Location TBD

  • More info coming soon!