Beavers in Massachusetts, Natural History, Benefits, and Ways to Resolve Conflicts Between People and Beavers

Beavers have played an active role in New England's ecology for thousands of years. As natural "engineers" of the landscape they were agents of change, creating wetlands out of uplands and streams, and providing habitat for a variety of plants and animals. For native peoples, beavers were a source of meat, skins and medicine. As Europeans colonized New England, beaver pelts served as a form of currency, creating an incentive for settlers to move further west and changing the relationship between Native Americans and Europeans, and Native Americans and beavers. Intensive hunting and trapping, and deforestation that followed European colonization eliminated beavers throughout much of North America, including southern New England. They were re-established in Berkshire County in the 1930s and, thanks (in part) to an active restoration campaign, have since reclaimed most of their former range in Massachusetts. When the beavers returned, an important component of our native ecosystems was restored. However, beavers returned to a landscape that had been substantially altered by people. In some areas, beaver activity conflicted with human needs. Property damage, Giardia, and the flooding of roads, buildings and septic systems continue to be sources of concern for many communities. Finding ways to co-exist with beavers that allow us to benefit from their role in the environment yet minimize conflict between beavers and people can be a challenge for many communities. This booklet provides information on the natural history and population dynamics of beavers, their beneficial aspects and potential problems, techniques for avoiding or resolving conflicts between people and beavers, and management programs for beavers in Massachusetts.