Watercourse relocation
To prevent burrowing by beavers in an undesired location, the watercourse can be relocated to an area where burrowing would not have a negative impact. When implementing this measure, consider creating an alternative lodge location.
Alternative lodge locationPage content
If a watercourse runs close to a road, the base of a flood defence, or a railway embankment, it may be advisable to relocate the watercourse or extend the bank to increase the distance between the bank and the vulnerable location (Figure 1).
Beavers generally do not dig more than 10 to 15 metres from the water’s edge. However, to account for exceptions and minimise risks, a distance of 15 to 20 metres is recommended.
Avoid the growth of trees or shrubs along the bank. Keep in mind that beavers may also dig into banks covered with only reed or scrub vegetation.
This approach also applies to areas inside flood defenses, where watercourses lie within 15 to 20 metres of the base of a flood embankment. When extending the bank, mesh can be placed between the original bank and the newly added soil.