On August 22 we will be visiting the Laguna Seca wetland in Coyote Valley to help maintain our existing Beaver Dam Analogs. Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs) are temporary, human-made structures designed to mimic the form and ecological functions of natural beaver dams. This process-based restoration project aims to keep more water in this seasonal wetland, restore some of its natural hydrology, and benefit the plants and animals who rely on this important landscape.
We will be partnering with Nature’s Engineers from San Luis Obispo to gather on-site materials and construct the BDAs out of non-native pine trees, mud, and willow tree branches, mimicking the techniques that real beavers use when making dams.
Blog post from last year's project: https://www.openspaceauthority.org/whats-new/who-gives-dam-about-wetland-restoration
Volunteers will need to stoop, bend over, kneel, and lift and carry materials in order to complete this project.
Please arrive between 7:45am-8:00am and be ready to start promptly at 8am so that we can beat the heat. Parking will be available on the dam nearby. We will also be providing a portojohn for use during the project.
We provide clean gloves, tools, and project-related supplies for the day, as well as training for needed to perform the project. We require that volunteers wear close-toed shoes, long sleeved shirts and pants, as well as bring their own sun-protection, snacks and water. If you have gloves from previous events then please bring them, otherwise new gloves will be provided on-site.
Please note that youth 14 and older can join us with the permission and accompaniment of a parent or guardian. If you are interested in bringing a plus one, youth or adult, you must have them sign themselves up separately through this volunteer portal.
If you have questions or concerns, please email Jeanette Mayorga at jmayorga@openspaceauthority.org.
