Do You have Beaver Fever? (Not the Justin type)

Hiking around your pond this winter, watch for worn paths leading into the water.  They commonly run from the creek behind the dam, up the backside of the dam, and into the lake.  Those are common signs of a “beaver slide” or trail.

Look for small tree trunks or limbs stripped of bark. Watch for unusual amounts of cattail leaves floating on the surface.  Have you seen tree trunks with pointed stubble near the ground?

If you observe such sign, implement a control plan. Beaver may dig holes in the dam for a lodge.  Cuttings may clog flood control pipes and contribute to other damage within the waterway.

Beaver are nocturnal and difficult to manage.  Contact your extension agent for referrals to experienced trappers and animal control professionals.