Beavers
The North American beaver - “Castor canadensis” – can be found in Old Lyme and throughout Connecticut.
Beavers are a “keystone” species that contribute to important biodiversity by providing habitat for many common and rare/ threatened animals and plants.
As part of its responsibility, the Open Space Commission is charged by town ordinance with “protecting and preserving properties’ natural resources and wildlife.” [emphasis added]
In 2019, the Commission adopted a policy to allow beaver activity on open space land if it does not threaten critical infrastructure or private property. Beaver Policy on Open Space Property
Nature’s Architects
Beavers are one of only a few animals that create their own habitat, which is then shared with an amazing variety of birds, plants, and wildlife. Beaver ponds improve aquifer quality through natural filtration and regulate water flow so downstream areas do not run dry in summer months.
In 2021, the Commission received grants from The Rockfall Foundation and the Hartford Audubon Society to show how beavers are beneficial to our natural environment.
Wildlife observation areas were created within Ames Open Space, and hand-hewn benches made from native wood placed for visitors. Educational signs were also posted.
A short, easily walkable beaver trail with similar educational messages can be found on Bartholomew Open Space on Buttonball Road. A “hikers’ happy hour” walk introduced the trail in 2025.
Mitigation of Beaver Problems
The Commission’s beaver policy recognizes that beaver/human conflicts occur.
On town land, non-lethal means are used whenever possible to limit beavers’ off-site impact and retain their ecological benefits.
The Commission has installed “beaver deceiver” devices in McCulloch Open Space and Bartholomew Open Space. In the former instance, the device regulates the level of “Jimmy’s Pond” to protect its man-made dam.
In Bartholomew, a fence and pipe flow system prevents the beavers from clogging a culvert that runs under Buttonball Road.
In other locations within Bartholomew Open Space higher water levels, possibly from beaver activity, led to construction of new trail bridges.
Thanks to the work of Eagle Scout Logan Landry and members of the LOLHS Environmental Club.
The Commission is committed to working with private property owners if beaver activity on open space land poses problems off-site. We ask that owners contact the Commission so we may work together to find a solution. Please do not take any illegal actions on town property.
More Information
Beaver Fact Sheet CT DEEP
Beavers in Connecticut CT DEEP booklet
Beavers Work to Improve Habitat (US Fish & Wildlife Service)