It was revealed recently that for the first time in centuries, the release of beavers into English waterways is being allowed. Steve Reed, Environment Secretary, is going to announce that it will be possible for nature groups to apply for a licence.  The first releases could take place in the autumn of this year. Beavers had been extinct in the UK for 400 years. They were previously hunted for their fur, meat and scent oil. In recent years they have been returning to waterways by means of licensed releases into enclosures. This new initiative will allow these creatures to live in the wild.

A 10-year plan will be needed in order to obtain a release into the wild. This plan will need to be drawn up showing the impact of the animals on the landscape. There are some beaver plans already formulated and ready to go. One of these is the National Trust’s Purbeck Heaths release project in Dorset. The Wildlife Trusts organisation has sites in Cornwall and Devon where it also wants to release Beavers. Richard Benwell, Chief Executive of Wildlife and Countryside Link said “Restoring nature means restoring whole ecosystems, and few can beat the beaver in helping bring landscapes to life. These much-loved animals can help restore rivers and wetlands and reduce flooding and drought. Their eco-engineering creates diverse habitats that are great for local communities and for wildlife. It’s high time for wild releases and excellent that the government is making progress.”

Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers’ Union, wants farmers to be allowed to kill unruly beavers. Further plans will be issued soon and it is understood that these might include some support for farmers if they experience flooding caused by beavers. The aim is to return beavers without having a negative impact on farming, production of food and infrastructure.

The TTW Water Group have been following the story of beavers and more can be found on the Water Group page.