Ecological restoration training: building beaver dam analogs with VOC
One-day hands-on workshop teaching low-tech riparian restoration by building and maintaining beaver dam analogs. Take-home reference materials included. Free.
Why we picked this
Building beaver dam analogs is low-tech riparian restoration that actually works — this one-day training makes you ready to apply it at sites across Colorado.
This single-day workshop teaches participants how to design, construct, and maintain beaver dam analogs — a low-tech, high-impact approach to restoring degraded streams and riparian zones. The technique mimics the function of natural beaver dams to slow water, raise the water table, and support vegetation recovery. The training includes classroom and hands-on field sessions, and attendees leave with reference materials for future project use.
Bring waterproof boots — you will be working in and around water. Gloves, layers, and sun protection are recommended. The exact location is shared with registered participants. No prior restoration experience required.
Beaver dam analogs are one of the most effective tools available for rangeland and watershed restoration across the West. This is a practical skill with direct applicability — VOC uses trained volunteers at multiple project sites throughout the season.