A meeting has been held in Machynlleth to discuss the possibility of reintroducing beavers to the Dyfi Valley.

The River Dyfi Natural Restoration Project aims to help restore nature and improve water management within the Dyfi catchment using sustainable solutions, including beavers.

The Wildlife Trusts in Wales are leading the project and a series of drop-in events are being held across the area so that local communities can find out more.

The first drop-in event was held from at St Peter’s Church in Machynlleth on Saturday.

Beavers were once widespread across the Welsh countryside, but due to hunting by man for their fur, meat and scent glands, they became extinct around the Middle Ages.

The wildlife trusts are working to bring beavers back to Wales because of the important role they can play in enriching biodiversity and helping to restore and manage rivers and wetlands. The Dyfi catchment has been proposed as the first pilot release site in Wales.

As beaver activity can also slow down water-flow through river catchments they can also help to alleviate downstream flooding, stabilise water tables, reduce erosion and improve water quality. Tourism benefits can also help support local economies.

The River Dyfi Natural Restoration Project also aims to plant riverside trees throughout the area to improve wildlife corridors and stabilise riverbanks and is keen to hear from landholders wishing to get involved.

Project officer Alicia Leow-Dyke said: “As well as providing many benefits for wildlife and water management, beaver reintroduction could provide a real boost for local economies.”

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