Beavers could be reintroduced to England and Wales

Beavers could make a comeback in England after a report found they could boost wildlife and reduce flooding. The rodents were hunted to extinction centuries ago but are being reintroduced across Europe and a pilot scheme is under way to bring them back to Scotland this year. A study for Natural England and the People's Trust for Endangered Species said it would be feasible to reintroduce them in most parts of England. The study found that beavers act as "ecosystem engineers" and their dams stabilise water levels, controlling flooding, purifying water and increase the number of plant and animal species. Natural England, which would have to licence any reintroduction of beavers, has not made any decision on whether to bring back the once-native species to England. But the government's conservation agency commissioned the report to provide information ahead of any potential applications from conservationists who want to reintroduce the species into the wild. The authors concluded there is no evidence beavers spread disease and what little damage they do to smaller trees, streams and fish ponds can easily be controlled. Natural England's chief scientist, Tom Tew, said: "Decisions about reintroducing the beaver into England need to be made with a full understanding of their impacts, which is why we have commissioned our this study in advance of receiving any licence applications. "Beavers could have a range of environment benefits but could only be introduced under the right conditions." The National Farmers' Union said it was vital the concerns of landowners and farm managers were taken into account before any decisions were made to bring back the species.

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ITN | March 18, 2009

Tags:. .feasible. .conservationists. .reintroducing. .reintroduced. .ecosystem