April 7 marks World Beaver Day, an occasion to recognize the pivotal role of beavers in the fight against climate change and the loss of biodiversity. As a keystone species, beavers significantly impact their ecosystems. The absence of such a species can lead to ecosystem collapse and a rapid decline in biodiversity within affected areas. A recent report from the environmental organization WWF underscores the extensive benefits provided by beavers. Beavers, often termed 'ecosystem engineers', sustainably shape their environment. The wetlands they create serve as habitats for numerous plant and animal species while enhancing water retention in the landscape. According to WWF conservation expert Sarah Layendecker, the dams built by beavers help mitigate flooding during heavy rainfall and reduce drought conditions in summer. These remarkable creatures primarily feed on young tree shoots and various riparian and aquatic plants. Lacking climbing abilities, they fell trees to access these shoots, using their distinctive ever-growing incisors for this purpose. They also construct lodges, which are typically submerged. Beavers build dams primarily to stabilize water levels around their homes, preventing them from flooding or drying out. In Lower Austria, it's estimated that about 5,000 beavers reside, as noted by the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) and the local conservation department. Most of these animals are found in continental regions, with approximately eight percent of the current population living in the alpine area near Styria. For beavers to thrive and maximize their ecological contributions, they require more space. Layendecker explains that about 90% of conflicts with beavers occur within ten meters of water edges. By allowing beavers this buffer zone, they can provide long-term benefits to society. While beavers are legally protected, their natural behavior can conflict with human land use, especially in agriculture. To promote peaceful coexistence, long-term strategies should include professional management with support from beaver consultants and financial assistance for preventive and compensatory measures. Such measures may involve fencing off trees or planting species that are less appealing to beavers, such as elderberry or hazel. Monitoring is essential for early damage detection and intervention. Creating buffer zones along waterways not only benefits beavers but also reduces the runoff of soil, fertilizers, and pesticides into water bodies, thus mitigating costs associated with sedimentation and over-fertilization. Beavers contribute to the restoration of degraded or damaged habitats, which in turn enhances biodiversity. This positions beavers as valuable allies in implementing the EU's restoration laws and is estimated to contribute over 100 million euros annually to the global economy. Additionally, beavers offer various ecosystem services, such as improved water retention, carbon storage through peat formation in retained water areas, enhanced water purification, and the prevention of damage from extreme weather events. Their ecological and economic roles underscore their importance not only for conservation efforts but also for both local and global environmental health.