Sidmouth: local residents are urged to support Government's beaver reintroduction plan

The Devon Wildlife Trust is urging local residents to support the reintroduction of wild beavers across England, following its trial scheme on the River Otter.

The Government has launched a consultation on its proposals to release and manage groups of the formerly native species in other sites around the country.

The consultation document doesn't specify where the beavers might be reintroduced, but says existing wild populations would be allowed to remain. In Devon, there is evidence of breeding populations on sections of the River Tamar and the Little Dart.

The Devon Wildlife Trust, which led the five-year trial reintroduction of beavers on the River Otter, describes the project as an 'outstanding success' that showed the beavers' positive impacts on local nature, water quality and flood alleviation.

It's asking local individuals and organisations to support the Government's plans, and will be recommending that landowners are offered help, including funding, to allow beavers to live in suitable watercourses on their land.

County and district councils are urged to support the plans

Meanwhile, an East Devon councillor is calling for the county and district councils to support the nationwide reintroduction of wild beavers.

Jess Bailey has written to the councillors responsible for environmental issues at both district and county level, asking them to respond positively to the Government consultation.

Cllr Bailey, the county councillor for the Otter Valley and the district councillor for West Hill and Aylesbeare, said: "Having a wild community of beavers on the River Otter (the only official one in England) has been a wonderful experience.

"Very many local people, as well as from far afield, have been thrilled to have been able to see wild beavers going about their business, and also producing and raising young.

"In addition the beavers have produced considerable environmental benefits and reduced flood risk. I shall be strongly urging the government to allow the reintroduction of beavers across England".

To read the consultation document and give your views, click here.