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The Brit Valley Project is now scoping the role for beavers in the Brit catchment. Please see their website for the latest updates.

INTRODUCING BEAVERS TO THE BRIT VALLEY

The natural systems that protect us from the effects of flooding, drought and pollution are failing and many animal and plant species are on the brink of disappearing altogether.  West Dorset Wilding recognises the importance of a thriving nature and its vital role in helping us to adapt to the impacts of climate change now and in the future. Enter the Eurasian Beaver!  Proven ‘ecosystem engineers’, beavers have been the subject of much recent research into flood alleviation and ecosystem restoration in the UK - most notably in the Otter Valley, in nearby East Devon, where there has been a wild release for ten years now.

Between 13th and 30th April 2023, we undertook a set of community consultation events across the Brit River Catchment. The results are included in this detailed report.

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BRIT CATCHMENT BEAVER PROJECT

Public Consultation Report

October 2023

Sam Rose beaver photos for MV-8757 Beavers have orange teeth infused in iron for strength.

Beavers are amazing 'ecosystem engineers', their dams create wetlands, allowing nature to thrive.

Photo: © Sam Rose 2022

WHY BEAVERS?

Beavers are a native species in the UK, but we wiped them out in the wild over 400 years ago, and their reintroduction is about bringing balance back to nature.  They are a ‘keystone species’, which means their behaviour positively affects many aspects of the ecosystem, and they are also now protected by law.  In short, beavers can prevent flooding and drought, improve water quality, increase biodiversity and help prevent climate change by locking up carbon in wetlands.  To add to this, the recreational, well-being and educational value of having wild beavers in an area is massive.

BEAVERS AT SLAPE MANOR

In 2023 we worked in collaboration with Slape Manor to introduce beavers on their estate. The project is an ongoing success. Alongside local videographer, Elliot Milson, The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares documented a visit. 

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6 FACTS ABOUT BEAVERS

Our thanks for support for these events goes to Natural England.  They are held in collaboration with or with additional support from Mapperton Estate, Slape Manor, Dorset Wildlife Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust, National Trust, Dorset AONB Team and The University of Exeter.

You can help us take the next steps in this work by joining the charity or making a donation to us.

HELP DRIVE NATURE RECOVERY

All are welcome as members, landowners, famers, land-managers, smallholders, individuals, families, companies and community or non-profit organisations.

Find out more about the different programmes we have by clicking the button below.

West Dorset Wilding, CIO Registered UK Charity No. 1196964, Established December 2021

West Dorset Wilding, The Eyrie, Unit 10C, Pineapple Business Park, Pineapple Ln, Salwayash, Bridport DT6 5DB

westdorsetwilding@gmail.com

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