It was refreshing to see a community make progress toward resolving its conflicts with beavers in a humane and environmentally responsible way ("Lawrence, 2 pesky beavers wage war,").

Lawrence officials have learned the hard way that it’s impossible to outwork beavers, who will rebuild dams over and over again if the habitat suits them. On the other hand, it is possible to outsmart beavers, but it’s important to take a number of factors into consideration to ensure success.

Effective water flow devices mitigate flooding while maintaining enough water to allow beavers to remain and enrich the habitat. Devices must be designed for each location’s topography and water flow, and must control the feel and sound of running water, which will stimulate damming activity. That is why a simple pipe won’t work without protection of a fence or cage. Unlike body-gripping traps, these devices are cost-effective, humane, long-term solutions that encourage tolerance of beavers while eliminating flooding concerns.

Linda Huebner
Deputy director, advocacy Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Boston