Beavers are master architects that transform landscapes into lush wetlands teeming with life. Their intricate networks of dams, lodges, and channels create riparian sanctuaries for countless species, and bring back biodiversity. Beavers foster resilient ecosystems that can better withstand the challenges of a changing climate. Here in the Pacific Northwest, it might be time to become a “Beaver Believer.”
This evening we feature Meg Waller, the dedicated Restoration Manager at Bark. As Bark’s resident beaver expert, Meg works to restore natural habitats and promote biodiversity, including by reintroducing beavers in the vicinity of Mt. Hood. Her work focuses on identifying habitat suitable for future beaver reintroduction as well as sharing that data with key players in the Oregon beaver world. She is founder and chair of the PNW Forest Climate Alliance Beaver Working Group, a small group of dedicated beaver believers who focus on beaver legislation and policy, including upcoming amendments to the Northwest Forest Plan. Additionally, she co-teaches a class at Portland State University called Environmental Justice and Salmon, wherein students learn about not only the environmental impacts of beavers but the socio-cultural history and impacts as well. Meg moved to Portland in 2018 where she completed her bachelor’s in environmental science. She hails from Lake Beluthahatchee in North Florida, a black water swamp chock full of gators, bald cypress, venomous snakes, and birds of prey where she learned early on about the power, beauty and importance of the natural world and our place within it.
Meg will share her insights and reflections coming from a deep love for plants and wetlands and, of course, beavers. Are you a beaver believer? Bring your natural curiosity and questions.
Our evening together in Portland begins at 6:30. In the spirit of communal sharing, this event is a potluck. Please arrive early and bring something if inspired. If you are interested in attending (space is limited) please register here.
Half Wild (https://halfwild.earth/) is a community grounded in a deep respect for the land, for nature, and for wildness. Our vision is a world with enough room for all of earth’s 8.7 million living species. we feature environmental practitioners, scientists, activists, filmmakers, writers and artists whose work furthers this vision. Join Half Wild.