The National Farmers Union say that all stakeholders should be consulted before the re-introduction of European Beavers to rivers in the United Kingdom.
The NFU insist that he plan must be clear about any long-term impact, both economically and physically, on the English landscape. The risk of flooding and the potential for disease transmission are two of the primary concerns.
The NFU also recognise that with the introduction of beavers that there will also be the need for a policing strategy and said: "While we recognise that European beavers may have benefits for river habitat creation and biodiversity, it should also be noted that there are no naturally resident predators of beavers in England so any reintroduction plan must include a very clear exit strategy and robust practical control measures."
The NFU are also concerned that any protections that the beavers are afforded might well make it become difficult for control at a later date and said: "We are also concerned that beaver sites may conflict with future planning or development if they were to become protected in a similar manner to, for example, badger setts. They should receive no statutory protection like badgers."
Beavers are to be introduced into Scotland in May 2009 and are currently undergoing quarantine in Devon after four families of beavers landed at Heathrow on the 20th November 2008.
Despite concerns, beavers do not eat fish, and with swift removal of dams, flooding risks can be averted.
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