English: Conceptual model describing the mechanisms of flow attenuation within a beaver wetland with an unconfined floodplain. As flow and therefore the depth of water behind the dam increases, the area of activated floodplain also increases; this results in the formation of new flow, infiltration and evapotranspiration pathways. These pathways become longer and more tortuous as the flooded area expands during a flow event. Canals likely play an important role in transporting water laterally into the floodplain further enhancing floodplain connection.