Farmers have also raised concerns about taking land out of production for wildlife habitat creation.
The reintroduction of beavers into England's wild has sparked a debate between the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) and conservationists. The NFU president, Tom Bradshaw, insists that farmers must have the option of lethal control if beavers are released. Conservationists advocate for non-lethal measures, such as trapping and relocation, and financial compensation for farmers. Beavers, extinct in Britain for around 400 years, were legally protected in 2022 following their return through escapes and illegal releases. They offer ecological benefits, including habitat creation and flood mitigation, but can also cause issues like tree damage and localized flooding. Conservationists propose solutions like rapid response teams and financial incentives, while emphasizing the need for a robust management strategy with adequate funding to support farmers.
