The Beaver Dam
Nature's Water Manager at Gilmore Lake
More Than a Beaver Dam
Most people think of the beaver dam simply as a pile of sticks and mud at the north end of the lake. In reality, it is one of the most important natural features on Gilmore Lake.
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Located where water leaves the north basin and begins its journey toward the Totogatic River, the dam helps regulate water levels, creates valuable wetland habitat, and supports an extraordinary variety of wildlife. Built and maintained by generations of beavers, the structure stretches roughly 300 feet across the wetland—an impressive example of nature's engineering.
How the Dam Works
Gilmore Lake sits within a much larger watershed that extends north toward Hayward. During periods of heavy rainfall, water flowing through this watershed can exceed the capacity of the outlet stream, causing water to back up into Gilmore Lake and flow over portions of the beaver dam.
During drier periods, however, water leaving the lake slows dramatically. At those times, the dam helps retain water in the lake by reducing the outflow into the Totogatic River. The result is a more stable water level throughout much of the year.
Beaver Benefits
The beaver dam provides benefits that extend far beyond the wetland itself, helping protect the health and natural beauty of Gilmore Lake.
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Maintains Lake Levels
Helps stabilize water levels by slowing the lake's outflow during dry periods.
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Creates Healthy Wetlands
Creates wetlands that naturally filter water and improve lake health.
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Supports Fish & Wildlife
Provides valuable habitat for the diverse fish and wildlife that depend on Gilmore Lake.​
The beaver dam stretches approximately 300 feet across the wetland at the north end of Gilmore Lake, where a small outlet stream flows to the Totogatic River. Google Earth image.
Wildlife Around the Beaver Dam
Most visitors only see the beaver dam from a distance. Last winter, Gilmore Lake resident Mike McCloskey mounted a trail camera near the dam to observe beaver activity and other wildlife in the area.
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The results revealed a surprising diversity of animals, including river otters, coyotes, bobcats, great blue herons, waterfowl and. of course, the resident beavers themselves. These photographs offer a glimpse into one of Gilmore Lake's richest wildlife habitats.
Great Blue Heron
Lynx
Coyote
Beavers
