Bringing back beavers to River Spey after 500 years
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Plans are being made to bring beavers back to the Cairngorms after a gap of 500 years.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority believes the creatures provide numerous and varied environmental benefits.
It, therefore, wants to re-introduce them to the upper parts of the River Spey and its catchment area.
Sarah Henshall, the organisation's head of conservation, said: "I would encourage anyone with an interest in bringing beavers back to the Cairngorms National Park to pop along to one of our Beaver Blethers events.
"We know that sometimes their activities can come into conflict with other wildlife, land management and infrastructure. That is why we are embarking on a programme of engagement to provide information, dispel myths and, importantly, identify concerns.
"We have just recently appointed a beaver officer who is coordinating various aspects of our engagement work and research, and who will be working with partners to ensure that the arrival of beavers is well-managed."
The authority states that beavers "re-naturalise the landscape".
It adds that they also regenerate trees, improve water-quality and create rich wetlands where other types of wildlife can thrive.
The University of Exeter and the Beaver Trust are currently researching what impact the release of beavers could have.
NatureScot is also preparing a report which should be published by Easter.
Beavers were once widespread in Scotland, before finally being hunted to extinction in the 16th Century,
The first of the 'Beaver Blethers', which is exclusively for farmers and land managers, will take place on Wednesday, March 1, at Kincraig Community Hall from 2pm-7pm.
The other three for the general public are taking place between the same hours on Thursday, March 9, at the Duke of Gordon Hotel in Kingussie; Thursday, March 16, at Kincraig Community Hall; Wednesday, March 22, at the Aviemore Youth Hostel.
More information HERE
