Title
Beavers and Wetlands
Recommended Action
Whereas the Township of Langley recently sponsored a
Climate Adaptation event on May 22, regarding the negative implications of global climate change and warming weather as it relates to local government activities and infrastructure;
Whereas existing wetlands within the Township provide valuable infrastructure which support climate mitigation and protect against the most problematic effects of flooding and drought, and further creates and enhances local ecosystems that are more resilient and supportive of wildlife and fish habitats thereby protecting biodiversity opportunities;
Whereas beaver dams provide an incontrovertible contribution to wetland creation and maintenance, including benefits such as the prevention of waterway scouring and erosion, reduction of sediment transport, increased habitat for waterfowl and fish species, and the potential for reducing the de-watering of downstream areas during drought events; and
Whereas the Township currently lacks a detailed policy regarding beaver dam removal, which policy further does not consider the importance of natural and re-naturalized wetlands and riparian wetlands and the fundamental role played by beavers in this regard;
Therefore be it resolved that Council direct staff to review our current policy on beaver dam removal and alteration, in order to reflect adherence to the following primary principles:
Removal or alteration of beaver dams subject to the jurisdiction of the Township of Langley local authority or managed by the Township on behalf of private property owners, will only be authorized with respect to imminent flooding or water damage from over-height water compounding that could negatively affect TOL infrastructure, and for no other purpose or cause; and further
That any necessary removal, or lowering, of beaver dams on Township property or properties managed by the Township, conform to best management practices to ensure the protection of do...
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