Comments of Support

MSP Roseanna Cunningham - Minister for the Environment said:"Welcoming beavers back to Scotland marks a historic day for conservation, and it is particularly apt they are returning in this, the year of Homecoming. These charismatic creatures are not only likely to create interest in Scotland from further afield but crucially can play a key role in providing good habitat for a wide range of wetland species. And while a great deal of research has already gone into the reintroduction this work is far from over. Observations and data collection over the next five years will play a crucial role in assessing the long term future for beavers in the Scottish landscape."

Gillian French, Biffaward's Programme Manager, said: "This is a truly unique and groundbreaking project and Biffaward is delighted to be the major funding partner. As part of the Landfill Communities Fund, Biffaward aims to turn landfill waste into sustainable environmental benefits across the UK. Biffaward has pledged support of up to £1 million towards this scientific trial, recognising its potential to facilitate the reintroduction of the species back into the UK, which offers strong benefits to the nation's biodiversity and economy. Biffaward funding is set to help the project establish and monitor the beavers in their new habitat, as well as develop information points allowing visitors to the area to learn more about beavers and their habitat."

Local businessman Darren Dobson, owner of the Cairnbaan Hotel, said: "As a local businessman, I welcome the return of beavers to Knapdale. Beavers are fascinating creatures famed for their industrious habits, and their arrival to Knapdale is certainly creating a booming industry for local businesses. Visitors can now come to the area, enjoy some of Scotland's most beautiful countryside landscapes whilst enjoying fresh local cuisine and have the chance to spot Scotland's first beavers in the wild."

Councillor Donald MacMillan said: "The Scottish Beaver Trial has been widely anticipated in Argyll and Bute. As a local councillor I have been following the progress closely. I am fully supportive of the project and look forward to the day when beavers are back in Knapdale Forest. I hope in years to come beavers may bring economic and environmental benefits to Mid Argyll."

MSP Jim Mather said: "This is an exciting development for wildlife enthusiasts all over Scotland and beyond. The beaver was hunted to extinction in this country in the 16th century and their reappearance will draw tourists from around the British Isles - and even further afield. Other parts of Europe, with a similar landscape to Scotland, have reintroduced beavers and evidence has shown that they can also have positive ecological benefits, such as creating and maintaining a habitat hospitable to other species. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) will closely monitor the progress of our new residents over the next five years. The impact the beavers have on the local environment and economy must be carefully assessed before we can make any decision on whether to approve any further reintroduction."

Stephanie Hilborne, Chief Executive for The Wildlife Trusts, said: "The Scottish Beaver Trial will provide a really positive example of the process of proposing and planning a time-limited beaver reintroduction in a suitable area. The beaver is a missing part of our watery landscapes and has a role to play in the healthy functioning of wetland habitats."

Chris Packham said: "This amazingly useful creature will have enormous benefits to woodland and wetland wildlife. You can play your part by supporting this exciting project "