KNOWLEDGE BASE

This experiment tested the performance of an off-the-shelf echo-sounding device called a 'fish-finder.' The aim was to see if it was as good as traditional, more expensive methods at mapping the depth and contours of a beaver pond. Results showed it accurately measured depths but had some problems in other areas. Despite this, the 'fish-finder' was seen as a suitable, cost-effective method for monitoring changes to complex, shallow wetlands like beaver ponds.

This study investigates how beaver dams affect stream flow in southwest England. Using data from before and after beavers occupied the area, they found that beaver dams at this site increased the time between peak rainfall and peak stream flow, and reduced the frequency of high flows. In other words, beaver dams reduced flood risk at this location. This was mainly achieved by increasing the capacity for the floodplain to store water.

This commissioned report is a case study of how BMGs are forming around the unofficial beaver populations. The report draws upon findings from a previous study that captured the experiences of stakeholders involved in governing the River Otter Beaver Trial and explores the applicability of those findings to the River Tamar.
Rather than being a fixed governance structure therefore, Beaver Management Groups themselves are a process, that seeks to facilitate renewed coexistence between humans and beavers in catchment settings.

A strategy to steer wider efforts to identify and actively expand the population to new catchments, alongside appropriate management and mitigation, following the Scottish Government’s change in policy in November 2021 to encourage wider beaver restoration.
It sets out plans to empower and support communities to maximise the benefits of beavers, while minimising negative impacts through effective management and mitigation.
The strategy highlights the need for ongoing research and monitoring of the beaver population and its effects.

The plan should be considered as a ‘working document,’ with actions and timelines being updated as new information is received, and existing actions being completed.
The plan should be viewed in conjunction with Scotland’s Beaver Strategy 2022-2045 and has been organised around the three strategic work themes of the strategy, namely: Conservation Translocation; Management and Mitigation; and Research and Innovation.