Our January forum on the return of beavers to Britain, joined by Emma Datta and Charlotte Taylor from the Wildlife Trust. The session explored beaver ecology and the important role beavers play in restoring natural habitats, improving biodiversity, and supporting natural flood management. We also discussed examples from other areas, including Kent and Devon, where beavers have already been introduced and are having positive impacts on landscapes and local communities.

Charlotte shared two supporting leaflets after the forum , one designed for the general public and another providing more detailed guidance for land managers, can be found here. These resources help explain the benefits of beavers and how their presence can be managed responsibly. A video case study from Devon was also shared, here showing how beaver activity has helped reduce the effects of flooding by slowing water flow naturally.

Attendees were encouraged to share any follow-up questions, feedback, or suggestions as part of the ongoing consultation, helping to shape future work around beaver reintroduction. beavers@derbyshirewt.co.uk