Unlocking Nature’s Engineers: Key Takeaways from the House Environment’s Insights on Beaver Benefits – VTDigger

Things have been a bit hectic in Vermont lately. There’s been a tragic incident involving a border patrol agent, and discussions about federal funding are causing quite a stir. Plus, bird flu has raised some eyebrows.

But let’s take a breather and talk about something a bit lighter: beavers!

This morning, the House Environment Committee gathered to discuss – you guessed it – beavers in Vermont. Experts from various organizations shared insights about these fascinating animals and their role in flood management.

Brehan Furfey, the furbearer project leader at the Department of Fish and Wildlife, shared some fun beaver facts:

• They have clear membranes that protect their eyes underwater.
• Beavers can hold their breath and stay submerged for up to 15 minutes.
• Typically, they live around 8 to 10 years.
• Their lips close behind their teeth, allowing them to eat and swim simultaneously.
• They occupy territories about half a mile long, complete with dams, underwater food caches, and cozy lodges.

Beavers were nearly wiped out in Vermont during the fur trade in the 1600s, but they’re making a comeback. However, experts disagree on whether their numbers are where they should be.

Ben Goldfarb, an author on the subject, mentioned that while beavers are recovering, their population is still below historical levels. Conversely, Furfey suggested they are nearing their biological carrying capacity, meaning more beavers could lead to population issues. Currently, Vermont lacks formal surveys to confirm these claims.

Goldfarb urged for better protection of beavers. Their dams can significantly slow down water flow, which is essential in reducing flooding. Although Vermont has a conflict resolution program in place, many beavers are still trapped due to human-beaver interactions.

Representative Amy Sheldon, chair of the Environment Committee, indicated that the discussion on beavers was just a starting point. She believes beavers could offer natural solutions to climate and biodiversity challenges.

So, what do you think? Can these clever critters help Vermont? Only time will tell!