In the Autumn of 2026, and subject to this consultation, we plan to submit a licence application to release Eurasian beavers into the wild in the Brit Valley. Beaver reintroduction would be part of the Brit Valley Project -which is led by West Dorset Wilding - and funded through the Landscape Recovery programme, subject to Defra's approval of the scheme. The licence would be granted by Natural England, who take into account the views of the local community when deciding whether to agree to these projects.
We will be holding two drop-in consultation events in July 2026 where you will be able to meet the team involved and discuss your thoughts directly with them.
13th July, 3pm-8pm - Beaminster Town Hall, DT8 3EF
15th July, 3pm-8pm - Bridport Town Hall, DT6 3LF
At both events drop-in sessions will run from 3pm-7pm with a public talk from 7-8pm.
Whether you want to ask how a particular location within the catchment might be affected by the beavers, or whether you just wish to register your views more generally, we really want to hear from you.
If you are unable to attend a consultation event but would still like to share your views, please complete this questionnaire.
Further information on beaver reintroduction can be found here with information from our previous consultations in 2023 available below. For information on beavers from other sources please visit beavertrust.org or beavermanagement.org
INTRODUCING BEAVERS TO THE BRIT VALLEY
The natural systems that protect us from the effects of flooding, drought and pollution are failing and many animal and plant species are on the brink of disappearing altogether. West Dorset Wilding recognises the importance of a thriving nature and its vital role in helping us to adapt to the impacts of climate change now and in the future. Enter the Eurasian Beaver! Proven ‘ecosystem engineers’, beavers have been the subject of much recent research into flood alleviation and ecosystem restoration in the UK - most notably in the Otter Valley, in nearby East Devon, where there has been a wild release for ten years now.
Beavers are amazing 'ecosystem engineers', their dams create wetlands, allowing nature to thrive.
Photo: © Sam Rose 2022
WHY BEAVERS?
Beavers are a native species in the UK, but we wiped them out in the wild over 400 years ago, and their reintroduction is about bringing balance back to nature. They are a ‘keystone species’, which means their behaviour positively affects many aspects of the ecosystem, and they are also now protected by law. In short, beavers can prevent flooding and drought, improve water quality, increase biodiversity and help prevent climate change by locking up carbon in wetlands. To add to this, the recreational, well-being and educational value of having wild beavers in an area is massive.
BEAVER CAM FOOTAGE
In 2023 we worked in collaboration with Slape Manor to introduce beavers on their estate. The project is an ongoing success. We regularly update our Beaver Cam page with new footage throughout the seasons, so check in to see how they're doing and who else has come to visit the enclosure.
BEAVERS AT SLAPE MANOR
In 2023 we worked in collaboration with Slape Manor to introduce beavers into an enclosure on their estate. The project is an ongoing success. Alongside local videographer, Elliot Milson, The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares documented a visit.
6 FACTS ABOUT BEAVERS