EXPERIENCE AND SUCCESS WITH MULTIPLE APPROACHES TO

BEAVER DAMAGE CONTROL

Every situation requiring beaver damage control is unique and the key to successful resolution is to choose the best intervention for the particular area. Careful assessment of the site includes: topography (including upstream and downstream), drainage area, potential for recurring problems, duration of the problem, environmental impact, sensitivities of interested parties, and, most importantly, the needs of the customer. To be able to evaluate a site and make appropriate recommendations requires a great deal of experience in resolving beaver-related conflicts. No one solution is appropriate for every situation.

Non-lethal control of beaver damage involves habitat modification and can offer a long-term solution for a problematic area. Pond-leveling pipes can be inserted through a beaver dam to maintain a water level at a certain point. These pipes work very well but are not appropriate for every situation. Areas with high flow or flat topography can prove cost-prohibitive or have a high potential for failure when pipe systems are installed. Experience with such systems is critical for success.

Culvert fences are another type of habitat modification that can offer long-term resolution to problematic beaver flooding. They must be constructed to withstand the forces of nature and the seasons and they require occasional maintenance but are an excellent and affordable solution in many situations.

Sometimes simple tree wrapping can help to keep beaver damage in check. When installed correctly tree wraps can save certain trees and/or cut off food supply to encourage beavers to relocate.

Trapping is another approach to resolving beaver problems. Many areas simply cannot tolerate beaver presence, for example water supplies and low-lying structures or systems. These areas are deemed “no tolerance” and it is understood that trapping may need to occur regularly. Trapping is also necessary when non-lethal approaches are inappropriate for the site. On some occasions trapping can be used in conjunction with habitat modification i.e. eliminate the problem and prevent it from happening again.

Again, the most important factor in the success of any intervention is experience. Careful assessment of all of the elements of a beaver conflict is the key in knowing which approach will have the best chance at success.