Beavers can help retain water during dry periods, ecologist says

Beavers have caused damage along the Mühlbach stream in southern St. Pölten, prompting the temporary closure of paths, but they can also help retain water during dry periods, ORF reported.

The animals undermined dams along the Mühlbach between Sonnenpark and the VAZ grounds. Because the damage posed a risk to walkers, access to the paths has been prohibited. The closures also come shortly before the Frequency festival, which is due to take place nearby.

Why beavers build dams

Richard Zink, a wildlife ecologist at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, said beavers weigh between 15 and 20 kilograms and are relatively slow-moving. They therefore dam rivers and other bodies of water, creating areas where they can move more easily and transport food such as felled trees.

However, the dams can cause problems when the animals dig burrows into them and undermine their structure.

Water reserves in dry conditions

Zink said beavers could also be part of the solution during periods of drought because they help keep water in the landscape. He described a stream beside his own property that had dried up, while a series of ponds remained behind beaver dams.

According to Zink, these ponds benefit many wild animals and have an important effect on groundwater regulation and surrounding plants.

He said spatial planning could help support peaceful coexistence with beavers. Where the animals are not wanted, targeted measures can be taken. Newly built water dams can be protected with a suitable grid installed in the top of the dam, he said, which generally limits the problems.

Beaver sightings are important for research into population developments in different areas. The StadtWildTiere Österreich project has recorded wild animals in urban environments since 2015, and beaver observations can be submitted through the project’s website.