The clearance of vegetation is taking place from 5 February over a couple of weeks to facilitate the installation of the beaver fence later in the spring. The path around Skew Bridge Lake will be temporarily closed - this involves wider general infrastructure and tree health work at Nene Wetlands. 

Some of the work will include the advance trimming or removal of overhanging trees adjacent to the path, which would pose a health and safety risk once the beavers have been reintroduced. The majority of the work will be focused on the south-west edge of Delta Pit, and initially the work will look quite impactful - signage has been placed on site to explain to visitors why the work is necessary. 

The viewing platforms on either side will also be opened up to improve viewing opportunities.

The beaver fencing that will be installed is to an exact specification from Natural England that was agreed following a full site survey last year, with all risks appropriately considered, making sure that the beavers are kept safe and that they don't escape. All stock gates will be designed to an approved beaver proof specification. 

As well as a fantastic opportunity to see beavers return to Northamptonshire for the first time in centuries, this hardworking species will play a role managing the wet woodland habitat in an enclosed area around Delta Pit, helping to continue reedbed restoration work and creating a dynamic and diverse wetland habitat that will benefit a range of other species. Excitingly, this also means having a population of these distinctive, charismatic rodents very close to people, bringing the opportunity for observation and education via the Trust's visitor centre at Rushden Lakes.

We are still fundraising for all the advance preparations - fencing, trail cameras, viewing platforms, educational trails, etc; donations to beaver appeal below.