This study considers the impact of beaver on the behavior of the element phosphorus in streams. Historical records indicate that beaver probably inhabited most of the small streams in North America prior to settlement by Europeans. The river flow on these streams was likely impeded by a series of beaver dams, resulting in ponds separated by the stream channels. Harvesting of beaver led to their near extinction around 1900, but laws protecting them have led to their rapid recovery. It is therefore important to understand the influence of beaver on streams because their presence characterizes the past and perhaps future status of streams. The influence of beaver activity on phosphorus dynamics in streams has not been fully studied. It is important that these studies be done because phosphorus is an element which often limits the growth and metabolism of aquatic organisms. If the concentration of this element in water is changed by the presence of beaver dams, then downstream reaches will be altered. This study will determine if beaver dams change the phosphorus concentration in downstream water and what factors (particularly those associated with sediments) influence the behavior of phosphorus and its relation to decomposition processes.
