NATURE’S civil engineer, the beaver, has made a return to the Forest after 400 years as part of a project to control flooding in Lower Lydbrook.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove helped release a pair of Eurasian Beavers into a 6.5 hectare enclosure upstream from Lydbrook yesterday (Tuesday, July 24).

The beavers will be regularly monitored over the next three years to gauge their ability to solve flooding problems and improve biodiversity.

Lydbrook has been subjected to several flooding events due to high volumes of water quickly running down the Greathough Brook and into the culvert system.

This trial will identify how the beaver’s dam building behaviour can help to hold larger volumes of water higher upstream in the natural pools and wetlands that will be created within the valley.

Mr Gove said: “The beaver has a special place in English heritage and the Forest of Dean.

“This release is a fantastic opportunity to develop our understanding of the potential impacts of reintroductions and help this iconic species.

“The community of Lydbrook has shown tremendous support for this scheme and the beavers will be a welcome addition to local wildlife.

 “The project is an example of our wider approach to enhancing biodiversity. It is another step towards our aim of leaving the environment in a better state for future generations.”