More Beaver Activity, More Questions: Understanding the County's Beaver Control Program

Residents may have noticed an increase in beaver activity across the region this year. As beaver populations grow and become more active, Agricultural Services has received a higher number of inquiries regarding flooding, dam construction, and requests for beaver removal.

These concerns are understandable, however, there is often confusion about when Lac Ste. Anne County can intervene and what services are available through the County’s Beaver Control Program. What is the Beaver Control Program?

The purpose of the County’s Beaver Control Program is to protect County-owned and maintained infrastructure from damage caused by beaver activity. This can include impacts to: roads, culverts, bridges, drainage systems, and other County-owned infrastructure.

The policy recognizes the important role beavers play in the natural environment. As a result, beaver removal and dam mitigation are only undertaken when necessary to protect public infrastructure.

When will the County Take Action?

The County may undertake beaver control of dam mitigation measures when beaver activity is directly impacting County-owned or maintained infrastructure. In some circumstances, work may occur on private land if flooding caused by beavers is directly affecting County infrastructure.

All mitigation activities must receive required regulatory approvals and are prioritized by the County Wildlife Officer based on risk and need.

When will the County Not Intervene?

Even when the County cannot undertake mitigation work directly, residents can still contact Agricultural Services for information and guidance.

The County’s Problem Wildlife Officer can:

• Provide information about beaver activity and behaviour.
• Discuss potential management options available to landowners.
• Connect residents to appropriate resources and contacts
• Explain the County’s Beaver Control Policy and response process.

Residents with concerns about beaver-related flooding or infrastructure impacts are encouraged to contact Agricultural Services — either call the Administration Office or email agriculture@LSAC.ca.

A Clear and Consistent Approach to Living with Wildlife

Lac Ste. Anne County’s approach recognizes both the ecological value of beavers and the need to protect public infrastructure. By applying a clear and consistent policy, the County can respond where necessary while helping residents better understand when County involvement is appropriate.