Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is conducting an operation this week to remove nuisance beavers from Connected Lakes State Park in Grand Junction. The operation is in response to an overpopulation of beavers that have been destroying cottonwood trees and obstructing water flow within the park, according to Bridget O’Rourke, CPW Statewide Public Information Officer. This activity directly impacts the local park, a popular spot for Grand Junction residents to recreate and enjoy nature.
O'Rourke stated in an email that the beavers' activities pose a significant problem due to their numbers. The destruction of cottonwood trees can alter the riparian habitat of Connected Lakes, impacting other wildlife and the overall ecosystem of the park. Additionally, blocked water flow can lead to flooding in some areas or reduced water availability in others, affecting the park's health and accessibility for visitors. These actions by what CPW considers "nuisance wildlife" necessitated intervention from the agency.
The trapping operation is expected to last all week. CPW staff are actively checking traps daily and removing beavers as they are caught, O'Rourke confirmed. While the agency is committed to addressing the overpopulation, CPW does not have a predetermined target number of beavers it plans to remove during this effort. O'Rourke noted that beavers can be legally trapped under specific nuisance wildlife regulations, a provision that allows agencies or licensed individuals to manage animals causing property damage.
Once trapped, the beavers are ethically euthanized, according to O'Rourke. The remains of these animals are not discarded but are utilized for important training and educational purposes by CPW. Carcasses are retained and frozen for CPW's annual training academy, where new wildlife officers and damage specialists receive essential hands-on instruction. This training includes learning proper techniques for handling animal hides and collecting potential evidence, which are crucial skills for wildlife investigations and management activities across the state.
Beyond internal training, the beaver skulls and hides are also used for broader educational outreach. These materials are displayed in Colorado state park visitor centers, utilized in schools, and brought to local community events. This allows CPW to engage with the public, including local students and families, to educate them about beavers, their role in the ecosystem, and wildlife management practices.
CPW has issued a clear warning to park visitors regarding the trapping operation. Bridget O'Rourke urged anyone who might encounter a trap within Connected Lakes State Park to "Leave it alone." Tampering with authorized traps or attempting to release animals from them is unlawful. Such actions can result in significant fines or other legal penalties, O'Rourke clarified, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation for the safety of both the public and the ongoing wildlife management efforts.
