The Beavers' Pond

One concern that SDPL has is how may we incorporate outdoor environments, such as the beavers' pond, in school curriculum to teach courses in ecology, science, conservation, and values?

How can we get near enough to all the life in this pond to study the total habitat without disturbing the delicate ecological system?

What are the best ways to tour this wilderness area and also preserve it for future generations?

Beavers' Pond in May

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Several examples of outdoor learning environments follow. The main focus is a beaver pond, approximately 25 years old, constructed on a small stream named "Jeffcoat Branch," located in Southern Alabama. The supporting stream begins two miles East and North of the pond and increases to approximately five feet in width as it nears the lily-covered water. The pond covers approximately 7 acres and averages 3 feet in depth.

Views of the lily pond as approached from the South.

Today, there are no beavers in sight, yet there are several white roots and stripped lily stems floating on the water - a good indication the beavers have been feeding. As the camera crew approaches, minnows dart behind the plants and then swim in formation around the submerged remains. A frog dives into the safety of the "water jungle" and in the distance wood ducks announce the arrival of visitors. A water moccasin slides into the murky haven and disappears before the stunned crew can focus the camera for a picture. All this action, within seconds, assures many, many "quiet" trips to the pond and hours of patiently waiting among the gnats, mosquitoes, and hungry yellow files if pictures are to be made. Impossible in one trip!!

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In the far left lies the dam, just beyond the "beaver mansion." High above the pond and to the left a crane's nest occupies a portion of the painted sky.

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