Some of Rocky's most critical natural engineers are beavers (Castor canadensis). Beavers work to support healthy riparian systems by building dams and raising water levels, which in turn helps to support the growth of healthy willow populations near rivers and streams. Willows, in turn, provide important habitat for nesting songbirds and cooler water temperatures for fish living in the streams below. In addition to providing habitat for a variety of wildlife, healthy riparian areas help provide flood control, wildfire resilience, and drought adaptation. Have you ever seen a beaver in its natural habitat? Image Credit: NPS Photo #RMNP #STEAMPower #STEAMSaturdays