At the Parish Council meeting on 8th February, Dan Brunton from Avon Wildlife Trust Beaver Advice and Support Team gave the councillors a very interesting presentation about the return of beavers to the Chew Valley.
There have been many Beaver sightings along the River Avon and River Chew, although no sightings have yet been reported in our Parish. However, it is very likely that they will be returning to our Parish soon.
In March the Trust will be carrying out a detailed survey of the River Chew. There are many positive impacts of beaver activity, but they can cause problems too, Beavers are a protected species and so landowners are encouraged to contact the Beaver Advice and Support Team if they see signs of Beavers on their land.
Avon Wildlife Trust’s Beaver Advice and Support Team provides free guidance to farmers, landowners and communities who are living alongside wild beavers in the Bristol Avon, Somerset and Frome area.
Please help Avon Wildlife Trust monitor the beaver population along the River Chew and its tributaries. As the plant life dies back over the winter, it becomes easier to spot tell-tale signs of beavers, like gnawed wood and woodchips. If you see any of these signs while out on the river, please fill out the sightings form on their website: www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/beavers. There’s also a handy spotter’s guide on there with tips on what to look out for.
If you are a landowner and you need free advice and support with managing the impact of beavers on your land please contact alex.preston@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk.
