Work

Beaver Wetland Buffers as Ecosystem-Based Tools for Sustainable Water Management and Lead (Pb) Risk Control

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Beaver dam–pond systems reshape the hydrology of lowland landscapes by slowing water flow and trapping sediments, thereby reducing the movement of pollutants. This study examined how such beaver-engineered wetlands can naturally filter and signal contamination risks associated with lead (Pb). We combined data from three matrices—bottom sediments, riparian vegetation, and non-invasively collected beaver fur—across three Lithuanian sites (2022–2024). Previously published datasets on plants and sediments were complemented with new information from beaver fur to explore seasonal and age-related effects as well as differences inside and outside dam zones. Lead levels were consistently higher in sediments than in plants, while beaver fur reflected variable, site-specific exposures. These results show that beaver activity contributes to the capture and redistribution of sediment-bound Pb in wetland buffers. The approach demonstrates how beaver habitats can serve as low-cost, nature-based sentinels for pollutant monitoring. Using beaver fur as a non-invasive bioindicator and managing dam stability can improve the ecological and policy relevance of buffer zones. Overall, the findings support the integration of beaver-engineered wetlands into environmental management and EU water policy, contributing to SDG 6 goals for clean water and sustainable wetland use.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17219892

Authors: Olgirda Belova, Kateryna Fastovetska, Egidijus Vigricas, Gintautas Urbaitis, Alvyra Slepetiene

Institution: Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry

Language: English

Topic: Ecology and biodiversity studies

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896