March beaver blethers summary

This document contains a summary of four 'Beaver Blethers' events held by the Cairngorms National Park Authority in March 2023 across Kincraig, Kingussie, and Aviemore. These informal gatherings aimed to help local landowners and residents understand beaver behaviour and ecology, allowing them to share any concerns about land management and potential impacts. Park Authority staff engaged in detailed discussions, using maps and beaver props to explain information. While some landowners and farmers expressed worries about beavers affecting land use and income, many attendees, including some landowners, also saw positive environmental benefits and potential for eco-tourism. Overall, the events were successful in raising awareness and gathering valuable feedback, with most concerns identified as being either manageable or avoidable, and this will help shape future formal engagement plans.