Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 172-183 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 179 carbon. Wetlands are known for their high carbon sequestration potential due to the accumulation of organic matter in anaerobic conditions, which slows down decomposition processes (Were et al., 2019). The presence of beavers enhances this potential by increasing the extent of wetland areas and promoting the deposition of organic material. Studies have shown that beaver-created wetlands can increase carbon storage by expanding the area of anaerobic conditions, which are conducive to carbon sequestration (Willby et al., 2018; Larsen et al., 2021). 8.2 Impact on local and regional climate patterns Beaver activities can also influence local and regional climate patterns. By creating wetlands and altering hydrological regimes, beavers contribute to increased water storage and evapotranspiration, which can affect local microclimates. The increased surface and subsurface water storage in beaver wetlands can lead to higher humidity levels and potentially moderate local temperatures (Larsen et al., 2021). Additionally, the presence of beaver dams can attenuate streamflow, reducing the severity of droughts and floods, which are expected to become more frequent and intense due to climate change (Puttock et al., 2021). These hydrological changes can have cascading effects on regional climate patterns by influencing the water cycle and energy balance in the landscape (Bailey et al., 2018; Brazier et al., 2020). 8.3 Potential for beaver reintroduction as a climate adaptation strategy Reintroducing beavers to areas where they have been extirpated is increasingly being considered as a viable climate adaptation strategy. Beavers are recognized as ecosystem engineers that can restore degraded riparian ecosystems and enhance their resilience to climate change impacts. Their dam-building activities can help modulate streamflow, increase water retention, and create diverse habitats that support biodiversity (Bailey et al., 2018; Dittbrenner et al., 2018). The potential for beaver reintroduction is particularly promising in regions where their presence can mitigate the effects of climate extremes, such as floods and droughts. For instance, studies have shown that beaver dams can significantly reduce peak flows during storm events, thereby attenuating flood risks (Puttock et al., 2021). Moreover, the creation of wetlands by beavers can provide refugia for species during dry periods, enhancing the overall resilience of ecosystems to climate variability (Willby et al., 2018). Therefore, beaver reintroduction not only supports biodiversity and ecosystem health but also offers a natural solution for climate adaptation (Bailey et al., 2018; Dittbrenner et al., 2018; Larsen et al., 2021). 9 Human-Beaver Conflicts and Management 9.1 Common conflicts between human activities and beaver behaviors Beavers, as ecosystem engineers, play a significant role in shaping freshwater ecosystems. However, their activities often lead to conflicts with human interests, particularly in areas where human activities are intensive. Common conflicts include flooding of agricultural lands, damage to infrastructure such as roads and drainage systems, and the felling of trees which can impact both commercial forestry and private property (Rosell and Campbell‐Palmer, 2022; Treves and Comino, 2023). These conflicts are exacerbated in landscapes heavily modified by human activities, where the natural behaviors of beavers can clash with human land use and management practices (Rosell and Campbell‐Palmer, 2022). 9.2 Strategies for conflict resolution and coexistence Effective management of human-beaver conflicts requires a multifaceted approach that includes both proactive and reactive strategies. Proactive engagement with affected communities, appropriate communication, and shared decision-making are crucial in preventing conflicts from escalating (Auster et al., 2020). Non-lethal management techniques, such as the installation of flow devices to control water levels and protect infrastructure, have been developed and widely implemented across Europe and North America (Rosell and Campbell‐Palmer, 2022). Additionally, financial incentives and compensation schemes can promote tolerance and coexistence by offsetting the costs incurred by land users due to beaver activities (Eeden et al, 2018; Holland et al, 2018). It is also essential to incorporate cultural values and environmental conditions into coexistence strategies to ensure their effectiveness and acceptance by local communities (Eeden et al, 2018; Expósito-Granados et al, 2019).
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