The Welsh Government has given its backing to the reintroduction of a wild animal that was hunted to extinction – beavers. Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, stated that the managed reintroduction of beavers could have positive impacts such as improving water quality, increasing water storage, and creating diverse habitats for other wildlife.
Beavers used to be widespread across Wales and Europe before they were targeted for their fur. Supporters of the reintroduction, including Tim Birch, the Senior Policy & Advocacy Manager for Wildlife Trusts Wales, believe that bringing back beavers is crucial in addressing issues like water pollution and flooding. Birch emphasised the importance of beavers in creating wetlands that can store rainfall and release water slowly to mitigate flood risks.
A study revealed that nearly 90% of people in Wales are in favour of reintroducing beavers, following the footsteps of other European countries that have successfully brought back these beneficial animals. The Welsh Beaver Project has been exploring the feasibility of reintroducing beavers since 2005, taking into account the opinions of the public.
Beavers are considered a “keystone species” due to their ability to positively impact various other species and plants in river and wetland ecosystems. The Welsh Government’s initiative aligns with its commitment to combatting climate and nature crises by creating resilient ecological networks to support endangered species and habitats.
The Welsh Government’s strategy involves engaging with stakeholders to address concerns about the impact of beavers on farmland and disease transmission. By incorporating various perspectives and collaborating with Natural Resources Wales, officials aim to strike a balance between the ecological advantages of reintroduction and the interests of landowners.
The reintroduction of beavers in Wales is a significant step towards establishing harmony between wildlife and human communities to ensure a sustainable and thriving environment. As the Welsh Government progresses with its plans, further details and updates will be provided to the public.