Co-existing with beavers: Corvallis, nonprofits try new tactic in bypassing dams

Bald Hill Multi-Use path draws a lot of people, be they hikers, runners, cyclists or those out walking their dog.

“This path is probably one of the most popular ones, I would say, in the Corvallis area, for all sorts of people to come out and recreate,” said Kendra Callahan of Greenbelt Land Trust, a land conservation nonprofit.

But dogs aren’t the only four-legged animals who frequent the area.

Old residents have returned in recent years. Beavers built a dam on Mulkey Creek near where it crosses under the paved path.

That led to frequent flooding and closures of a trail that offers people of a variety of abilities the chance to get outside and enjoy Bald Hill Natural Area.

When people began looking for a solution to the problem, a variety of groups ranging from governmental entities like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the City of Corvallis, to nonprofits like Marys River Watershed Council and Greenbelt, decided to work together on a solution.