Stones to protect banks

Stones placed along a bank can prevent beavers from burrowing at an undesired location. When implementing this measure, consider creating an alternative lodge location.

Alternative lodge location

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When a burrow or lodge is found in an undesired location—or to prevent beavers from building one—a possible measure is placing stones along the bank (Figures 1 and 2). Use large stones (larger than in Figure 2) to help prevent beavers from moving them to dig underneath. Extending the stones into the bed of the watercourse (0.5 to 1 metre deep) can prevent beavers from creating a burrow beneath the installed layer.

 

Concrete slabs can also be used to protect a bank. It is essential to anchor the slabs well into the bed of the watercourse. If not properly installed, beavers may burrow underneath and use the slabs as a roof for a daytime resting place.

Stones on bank - Dick Klees
Figure 1: Illustration of how stones should be placed down to the bottom of a watercourse to prevent beavers from digging underneath. © D. Klees
Stones on bank - G Schwab
Figure 2: Placement of stones along the bank to prevent digging. Here, a rebar base was used. © G. Schwab