Tony:

Nice work on those beaver!

I don't think I count as experienced but I will tell you what I do.

I also use peat moss when it gets cold. Also use table salt layered in the dirt when I sift it on.

Dry dirt gathered from under bridges also works. It collects road salt when the road above melts off so is in a way, pre salted dry dirt.

I learned this from Randy Smith of PA, a big time trapper.