Long before roads crossed Canaan Valley, beaver shaped its waters—and its destiny.

Drawing on more than 50 years of field research, Dr. Michael blends history, ecology, and fiction into the unforgettable story of beaver families struggling to survive in a changing wilderness. Their dams transform rushing streams into vibrant wetlands, providing refuge for countless creatures while inviting both admiration and conflict with humans.

Once eliminated from Canaan Valley, beaver returned in the 1930s to reclaim their ancient role as nature’s master engineers. Their story is one of resilience, family, and renewal.

Rich in authentic wildlife behavior and natural history, Canaan Valley’s Remarkable Beaver: A History asks a timeless question: Can people and beaver learn to share the same landscape?