David Parkyn
Gloucestershire Beaver Feasibility Project
Though once widespread, wild beavers (Castor fiber) have been absent in Gloucestershire for hundreds of years. Today, with our wetland habitats under unprecedented pressure and flood risk worsening, considerable interest has grown in reintroducing this keystone species for its ability to boost biodiversity and climate resilience.
The Gloucestershire Beaver Feasibility Study, a partnership project with Forestry England, explored whether reintroducing beavers would be feasible in local catchments. The study looked at habitat suitability, likely benefits and risks, and how a beaver reintroduction might affect the people who live and work in the county. The views of local people were, and will continue to be, central to the assessment and future planning.
The Gloucestershire Beaver Feasibility Study was made possible through financial support from Forestry England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, and private donors.