NatureScot heed farmers warnings on beaver reintroduction

Scotland’s nature agency have delayed plans to reintroduce beavers to a Highland glen because of “considerable concern” among farmers, crofters and fisheries organisations.

Moray-based Trees for Life has been working with Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) on the Glen Affric reintroduction proposal for two years, and have expressed dismay at the delays.

Beaver reintroduction can improve wetland habitats, water quality and alleviate flooding but past reintroductions in areas such as the nearby Cairngorms National Park have drawn criticism for failing to follow due process. NatureScot said they had decided to push back the reintroduction to allow for further consultation on the plan.

Head of the West Loch Ness Farm Cluster, Fred Swift, told ST: “Having had beavers on our farm just outside Glen Affric for nearly 20 years we have seen and enjoyed the amazing dynamic and diverse wetland habitat they create. These unique habitats, and the beavers that create them, are certainly something Scotland needs more of, but only where they are welcome.

“I am glad that NatureScot are considering their next move very carefully. The reintroduction has split opinion in the glen and just because those supporting the reintroduction have carried out the due diligence and prerequisite consultation doesn’t mean the answer should automatically be ‘yes’.”