Beavers are the largest rodents in North America, and their population is estimated to be between 6 and 12 million animals. In most areas, beaver are protected as furbearers by State laws and regulations. Beavers occur in many urban, suburban, and rural areas where there is a food supply and a body of water. Beaver-related conflicts occur when dam-building and tree-cutting result in flooding, habitat damage, and safety problems.
Overview
The beaver is an important component of North American ecosystems, and their populations are sometimes associated with damage problems.
Beaver Conflicts with People
The beaver's ability to modify and create habitat sometimes leads to damage problems including blocked culverts, flooding, destruction of valued trees, and loss of habitat for other wildlife and plant species.
Beaver - Assistance from Wildlife Services State Offices
WS provides beaver management assistance to help people protect crops, roadways, and woodlands.
Research - Developing Science-Based Solutions to
Beaver Conflicts
WS' NWRC works to increase knowledge about beaver and management approaches.
