Could Beavers help prevent flooding in Reading?
The idea's been floated at a council meeting
Beavers could be released in Reading - to help prevent flooding.
Beavers were hunted to extinction in Great Britain around 400 years ago, as they were valued for their pelts, which were used to make hats and other clothing items.
The idea was floated at a council meeting that the animals could be introduced to the wetlands around Reading, as the dams they make can help slow water flow, theoretically reducing the risk of sudden floods.
In England, beavers were legally reintroduced into the wild for the first time at Purbeck Heath, Dorset this month.
The rodents can be released into the wild with a licence, according to information provided by Rewilding Britain.
Beavers are classed as a native species and enjoy European Protected Species status, making it illegal to harass, capture, harm or kill them.
The suggestion was put forward at a meeting of the council’s strategic environment, planning and transport committee.
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