California’s waterways are about to get a helping hand from an unexpected ally: the North American beaver. With the recent passing of Assembly Bill (AB) 2196, authored by Assemblymember Damon Connolly and supported by CalTrout, a comprehensive program for beaver restoration throughout California’s watersheds is set to begin. This innovative approach leverages nature-based solutions to promote fish and freshwater resilience, offering a beacon of hope for our aquatic ecosystems.  … While beavers are admired for their sweet and adorable charm, they are powerful ecosystem engineers whose work is vital for maintaining healthy watersheds. Their dam-building activities create complex aquatic habitats, improve water quality, and increase biodiversity. By reintroducing beavers to their native historical range, we’re not just bringing back a lovable species – we’re deploying nature’s own environmental restoration experts.