03/31/2026
Good news for local beavers from the Board of Game meeting last week. Due to low numbers of beavers in the Anchor River, the Board voted to close all beaver trapping in the Anchor River drainage in Unit 15C, with Deep Creek reopening for trapping.
The original Proposal 151 was to close all beaver trapping in the Anchor River drainage in Unit 15C for five years, but the board removed the sunset clause. The reason for the proposal was that "Beaver are no longer a functional part of the ecosystem in the Anchor River drainage. As a keystone species, the loss of beaver from the system is negatively impacting wildlife such as moose, salmon, songbirds and other species that rely on the habitat that beavers create. Trapping opportunities have been lost and flood control and water retention naturally provided by beaver impoundments is absent, which negatively impacts human infrastructure in the Anchor River Drainage."
The Homer Soil and Water District proposed to work with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to promote the restoration of beaver populations in this watershed. A trapping moratorium during these restoration efforts are likely to increase the success of the program.
The proposal was submitted by the Homer Fish and Game Advisory Committee in collaboration with the Homer Soil and Water Conservation District. Thanks to all involved for your hard work! This stuff doesn't come easy! Big win!! Hope some beavers can set up shop again in the Anchor. They are such important creators of juvenile salmon habitat.
