Oregon increasing beaver protections to help salmon, slow wildfires By Kristian Foden-Vencil (OPB)Aug. 1, 2025 1 p.m.Oregon just passed its second beaver protection law in as many years. The hope is that a bigger beaver population will help salmon, slow wildfires and also safeguard drinking water. THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:Become a Sponsor📨 Daily news in your inboxSign up today for OPB’s “First Look” – your daily guide to the most important news and culture stories from around the Northwest.EmailPlease leave this field blankSign up