Woody vegetation may be consumed during any season, although its highest utilization occurs from late fall through early spring when herbaceous vegetation is not available. The majority of the branches and stems of woody vegetation are cached for later use during the winter. Winter is a critical period, especially for colonies on streams because they must subsist solely on their winter food caches. One study reported that trees of all size classes were felled close to the water's edge, while only smaller diameter trees were felled farther from the shore. Trees and shrubs closest to the water's edge are generally utilized first.
Beaver activity can have a significant influence on stream and riparian habitats.
Additionally, beaver ponds conserve spring runoff, thus ensuring more constant stream flow, diminishing floods, conserving soil, and helping maintain the water table. Beaver activity can be beneficial to some wildlife species. Waterfowl often benefit from the increased edge, diversity, and invertebrate communities created by beaver activity. Beaver activity can also improve fish habitat.