Forestry and Land Scotland Seeks License for Beavers in Glen Affric

The public organization Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has submitted an application for a permit to introduce beavers into Glen Affric, located in the Highlands region. This glen is characterized by extensive, densely forested hillsides and valleys, featuring a river, various streams, and several lochs, situated to the south of Inverness. Portions of the ancient Caledonian Forest are also found within its boundaries. The reintroduction of beavers into Loch Beinn a Mheadhoin is a possibility for next spring, contingent upon the approval of a licence by NatureScot, a Scottish government agency. Previously, authorized releases of beavers have occurred in Knapdale, Argyll, as well as in specific areas of the Cairngorms National Park within the Highlands. FLS, along with its collaborative partner, the conservation charity Trees for Life, stated that they conducted consultations over a two-year period with both local communities and land managers. Euan Wiseman, who serves as FLS’s north region planning manager, commented: “Over the years we have built up good working relationships with the local Affric communities so it was important that we took the time to fully engage with everyone on this issue.” He further stated: “We have now put appropriate measures in place that have enabled us to make a formal application to NatureScot for a release licence.” Alan McDonnell, Trees for Life’s head of nature restoration, also remarked: “Should the application be approved, we will be ready to offer practical support to ensure the local community can enjoy and benefit from beavers being brought back to the glen, with any localised issues well-managed.” Beavers became extinct in Scotland approximately 400 years ago, but their reintroduction occurred in 2009. According to conservation organizations, the actions of beavers can enhance water quality and wetland environments, in addition to contributing to flood mitigation. However, in the Cairngorms area, farmers and crofters have voiced objections. These groups asserted that an adequate consultation process was not conducted prior to the releases within the national park. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.