Why the fuss? 

Beavers are plentiful and when prepared properly taste pretty good! 

OK, it's a bad joke but I simply couldn't resist!

Actually,  I will go on record as saying we need MORE aquatic wildlife in and around the Kern River not less.   The century-old practice of "managing" every single drop of water flowing in the Kern River has disrupted the natural ecosystem beyond repair.  

Before the Isabella Dam, the area between Bakersfield and Taft was one of the largest waterfowl habitats in North America.  Now, it's nothing more than dust blowing in the wind and fodder for yet more housing subdivisions.

We have long passed the point where the self-inflicted damage can be repaired - no one seriously thinks those wetlands can be restored, but we can take it upon ourselves to manage the dwindling wildlife resources in a manner that is beneficial to not only the wildlife, but humans as well.  Contrary to what some may think, it's not an "either / or" situation. 

After visiting relatives in the Shenandoah Valley on the East Coast, it is apparent to me people CAN co-exist with animals and nature.  The Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and West Virginia is a prime example.  Sadly, we have just grown accustomed to paving paradise over and that has now become the paradigm for how we manage these wildlife versus mankind encounters.

Keep the beaver. 

Protect the beaver. 

Hell, bring in a couple beaver friends for him. 

The beaver knows his place in nature while sadly, we have forgotten ours.

Dontcha think you're being a little hard on the Beaver Curt?

Mrs Cleaver

Love it, anti!