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Though often seen as a nuisance, beavers can be valuable allies for riparian landowners, offering natural solutions to enhance and protect waterways. Their ponds create rich wetland habitats that support a diversity of wildlife,  including beneficial insects, birds, amphibians, and mammals, which can improve the area's ecological health. Beavers are generally non-aggressive and rarely bite unless provoked; documented cases of beavers carrying rabies are extremely rare. Beavers build dams to create deep water that shelters their lodges and underwater food caches. They typically won't build dams in deeper water, like that on a lake. Beavers sometimes create bank dens by burrowing into the shore rather than constructing lodges. Importantly, beaver ponds can help regulate water flow, reducing flooding and drought risks by storing and slowly releasing water. When the available shoreline vegetation is depleted, beavers will usually abandon the site, leaving behind wetland areas that continue to provide ecological benefits. Understanding beaver behavior can help us manage their presence in ways that protect property while supporting a healthy riparian ecosystem.

Beavers have been seen on Potter Lake over the past few months. To protect trees along your shoreline, consider wrapping them with chicken wire. This is an effective method recommended by a beaver control expert. If a beaver begins chewing on a tree, you can deter further damage by painting the exposed wood with a mixture of dark latex paint and sand. Use as much sand as possible while still being able to apply the paint. The rough texture discourages beavers from gnawing on the tree.

This Wisconsin DNR pamphlet provides more information on protecting your property from damage: Beaver Control Guidelines.