Exploring the Hydrological Impacts of Beavers in York River State Park
Research Location:
York River State Park
Conservation Partners:
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and State Parks
Student Researcher
Katie Clark '23, Major: Data ScienceFaculty Mentor
Dr. Robert RoseProject Description
Reintroduced in Virginia in 1932 after extirpation due to fur trading by settler communities, the North American beaver (castor canadensis) has expanded across Virginia. A highly interactive, ecosystem engineer, beavers influence the hydrological processes in aquatic systems through the formation of dams that create and expand wetlands, influence water quality, alter riparian vegetation, and influence flooding regimes. Their influence on ecosystem processes is linked to biodiversity and ecosystem function, but the shifts in flooding and hydrology can also cause challenges for landowners, agriculturalists, and land managers.
Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation-Virginia State Parks is interested in collaborating with a William & Mary student to explore the hydrological impacts, specifically the impacts on flooding regimes, of beaver expansion in a 60+ acre ecosystem in York River State Park. Using remote sensing technology and field validation, the student will create a map exploring the spatial impacts of beavers on flooding and potentially on key vegetation species (Bull Rush, Green Ash) in the ecosystem. Through an exploration of patterns, the student will be invited to work with York River State Park to help develop a management plan for beavers in the park.
