I recently wrote about the huge and varied benefits that Beavers bring to the environment and other biodiversity …. see here.
In that post, I also commented on the long-awaited and promised Beaver Strategy for England by the Westminster Government which has remained conspicuous by its absence, despite the campaigning pressure of the Beaver Trust and many other conservation and environmental organisations.
Finally, at last, the Westminster Government has confirmed a 12 week consultation on proposals to support further “cautious” introductions of Beavers to the wild in England after a successful trial on the River Otter in Devon.
Beavers will also be given legal protection from 2022, making it an offence to deliberately capture, kill, disturb or injure them or damage their breeding sites or resting places, as part of efforts to support their recovery as a native UK mammal.
Under the proposal being put out for consultation, applications for licences to release Beavers into the wild in England would need to meet certain criteria, including local community support.
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice (commonly known as George Useless to anyone with an interest in the environment, wildlife, conservation, rewilding, etc.) said:
“We are committed to providing opportunities to reintroduce formerly native species, such as Beavers, where the benefits for the environment, people and the economy are clear. But we also understand that there are implications for landowners, so we are taking a cautious approach to ensure that all potential impacts are carefully considered.”
That all sounds very encouraging as a belated first step. The scientific and other evidence supporting the re-introduction of Beavers is already overwhelming and many people and environmental and conservation organisations await the outcomes of the consultation and the ultimate decision with great interest and anticipation.
The Guardian - Beavers to make "cautious" return to England with legal protection
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