As masters of ecosystem engineering, the beavers’ amazing talent for dam construction makes many farmers and land owners consider them pests. However, their role in the ecosystem proves useful in helping to manage water-related issues such as drought, flooding, and water pollution. Join us for a walk with Ranger Bill Curtis to learn how to read the signs of beaver activity. We will learn about the important role that beavers played in creating our modern American landscape, and how other species depend on their work. We’ll also watch how a tool called a flow device helps facilitate human-beaver coexistence. This is a new location for us to scout for signs of beaver activity.
All ages are welcome to join us, including young naturalists, ages 5 and above. The trail is mown grass and level. We’ll walk less than a mile.
Bill Curtis is a National Park Ranger currently stationed at Hampton National Historic Site and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. While a history major at Gettysburg College, he began his career as a licensed battlefield guide. His NPS career has included full-time duty as an interpreter and law enforcement officer, and he now works in the Project Management Division. Bill also holds his certificate as a Maryland Master Naturalist and is married with two children.
Bill, like most of the people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer. Your money directly supports the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (low-intensity hiking)
- The exact meeting location will be listed in your confirmation email after payment has been received.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, tick and insect spray
- Bring your camera, an extra battery, memory card, and lens-cleaning cloth.
- Bring binoculars and loupes/hand lenses, a few will be available to borrow.
- Bring your guidebooks.
- No pets, please.
The exact meeting location will be listed in your confirmation email after payment has been received.
NEW – Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.