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Module 1 – Introduction to Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration

Below you’ll find PDFs and video recordings for each topic from this virtual workshop. These materials are licensed under Creative Commons, so you are free to share, adapt, and re-use subject to its terms.

← Back to all Modules   |   → Bonus Resources for Module 1


🎥 Module 1 Video Playlist

Watch the entire playlist on YouTube:
Module 1 Playlist


Topics


A. Logistics

Presenter: Joe Wheaton
Introduces the presenters and explains the logistics of the virtual workshop.


B. Background & Why We’re Here

Presenter: Jeremy Maestas
Sets the stage for why we’re here, the scope of degradation, and a shared vision.


C. Scope of the Problem

Presenter: Joe Wheaton
Explores the scale of the riverscape degradation problem.


D. Missing Reference Condition (Stage Zero)

Presenter: Colin Thorne
Explains Stage Zero concepts and thinking outside the channel.


E. What Riverscapes Could Be

Presenter: Mark Beardsley
Reimagines the possibilities for healthy riverscapes.


🎤 Panel Discussion & Quiz


F. What You Came For – Your First BDA

Presenter: Joe Wheaton
A hands-on introduction to building Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs).


G. Broad Umbrella of Low-Tech Restoration

Presenter: Jeremy Maestas
Explores the origins and diversity of low-tech structures.


H. Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS)

Presenter: Stephen Bennett
Describes types of PALS and their role in restoration.


I. Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs)

Presenter: Scott Shahverdian
Explains the beaver-dam-analogue approach.


🎤 Panel Discussion


J. Principles of Healthy Riverscapes

Presenter: Joe Wheaton
Covers core principles for river restoration.


🎤 Panel Discussion


K. Beaver History & Biology

Presenter: Ben Goldfarb
Introduces beaver ecology from a historical perspective.


L. Beaver Ecology & Feedbacks

Presenter: Nick Bouwes
Discusses beaver as ecosystem engineers.


M. Why Partner with Beavers

Presenter: Jeremy Maestas
Covers why to collaborate with beaver in restoration.


🎤 Panel Discussion


Panel Discussion 4 – Q&A Highlights

Q: Beaver are not socially acceptable in my area. What can I do?
A: (Mark Beardsley) Respect social constraints. Education may help, but do not force beaver where unwelcome.

Q: Can we mimic beaver dams instead of real beaver?
A: (Mark Beardsley) You can mimic them, but sustaining the natural processes is more effective for long-term success.

Q: What resources help manage beaver conflicts?
A: (Mark Beardsley) See Beaver Institute.


N. Wrap-up & Preview

Presenter: Joe Wheaton
Summarizes Module 1 and previews future modules.