History of Beavers

Before widespread fur trapping began in the 17th century, there were likely between 100 million and 400 million beavers in North America. Nearly every waterway held beavers. And historical accounts paint a picture of an American West that was relatively wet and green. But by 1900 there were only an estimated 100,000 beavers left in North America.

Trapping has waned and protections for beavers have increased. And there are now an estimated 10 million to 15 million beavers in North America.

As the climate crisis worsens, water disappears, wildfires ravage the west, and the cycle of drought and flooding becomes more intense, people are increasingly looking for solutions. Beavers and their dams can be an incredibly potent and inexpensive way to help New Mexico’s landscapes, people, and wildlife.