Beavers officially recognised as native species in England

The new law, which came into force at midnight, has been hailed as good news for this "extraordinary mammal which can do so much to restore wetlands across Britain". But there are calls for more clarity regarding the changes to be offered to landowners. 

The Wildlife Trusts pioneered the reintroduction of beavers, but is now demanding greater urgency from the Government in relation to the plans for the widespread return of the animals.

Harry Barton, Devon Wildlife Trust’s chief executive, said: “A summer of record-breaking heat and drought has highlighted the urgency of making our landscapes more resilient to the unfolding climate emergency.

"Beavers have created green oases in our parched river valleys, because of their ability to store water through dam building and wetland creation. 

"And we know they can reduce peak flows in times of flood and help improve water quality. 

“The Government’s recent announcements on protection for beavers and their management are good news, but they lack clarity and a sense of urgency.  We need a clear plan and timetable so these amazing animals can become part of the wildlife of rivers throughout England.”

The Government published guidance in early September which outlines how beavers might be managed in the future.

But both Beaver Trust and The Wildlife Trusts are concerned that it does not give sufficient support to landowners. The charities warn that, in their current form, the plans will not deliver the widespread reintroduction of a species which scientific studies have shown can improve water quality in rivers, stabilise water flows during times of drought and flood, store carbon and boost other wildlife.

Sandra King, chief executive of Beaver Trust, said: “Beavers bring such an astonishing array of ecosystem services to our landscape, this truly is an historic day for the species in England.

"It is thanks to the hard work and determination of pioneering individuals and wildlife organisations that the recovery of this once-native animal is able to celebrate this milestone."

Wildlife Trust (Image: Wildlife Trust)

The Wildlife Trusts and Beaver Trust backed their call in a letter to Ranil Jayawardena, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. 

This asked Government to take five key actions to ensure beaver reintroductions can take place on a scale and at a pace which will bring maximum advantage to wider society.

These actions include:

1. Publishing an ambitious strategy and timeline for beaver reintroduction in English river catchments.
2. Reconsidering the proposals for funding beaver releases into the wild. At present these impose prohibitive levels of upfront costs on groups wanting to reintroduce beaver populations.
3. Establishing a system of financial support which will reward the farmers and landowners who provide space for beavers and their wetlands.
4. Putting in place and then resourcing a network of Beaver Management Groups across England to support farmers, landowners and local communities as new beaver populations become established.
5. Confirming the futures of existing wild living beaver populations (including the Tamar in Devon and the Stour in Kent) to add to those in the River Otter, Devon.