More beaver information
What is the protected status and management of beavers in England ?
In England beavers are protected by law as a European Protected Species. This means it is illegal, without a licence from Natural England, to deliberately capture, injure, kill or disturb a beaver or damage or destroy their burrows, lodges or dams associated with these structures.
In many cases, particularly where space is given, beaver activity presents no problems. In fact, they are often favourably welcomed for the benefits derived as a result of their presence. However, beavers may also bring challenges where their burrowing or damming may require management action.
To support landowners, riparian users and managers, Natural England have developed a 5 step approach and guidance for managing beaver activities in England. (External link)
What is the Environment Agency's perspective?
 We actively support the Government’s ambition and policy for the presence and further reintroduction of Eurasian beaver. This is in line with our objectives as well as government priorities around water, nature, flood risk and catchment management. We have a balanced and evidence based approach and are using our expertise, as regulators, operators and advisors in the water environment, to learn, adapt and embed new ways working alongside Eurasian beaver as a key component of thriving, naturally functioning, climate resilient rivers and wetlands. |
How will we work alongside beavers in our catchments?
We recognise that alongside benefits there will also be challenges for example, the potential for restricted passage to some fish species by beaver damming and effects on infrastructure through burrowing. We will integrate beavers into our work areas to maximise the benefits and minimise the risks and have a National Beaver Team providing support, guidance and training to operational teams.
Working with partners and stakeholders, including Beaver Management Groups, and alongside experts from those who already live with beavers, we will evolve best practice as Eurasian beavers return to our landscapes. We work closely with Natural England who licence the release of beavers to the wild. As experts in the water environment, species and catchment planning, Natural England will seek our advice for these projects, allowing us to highlight any significant benefits and raise likely challenges related to our role.