Readers might remember that on the way to my parents home I pass through the Gold Rush town of Sutter Creek where a large beaver dam stops water on both sides of the bridge. Each summer the dam is knocked out, and in the past we have been alarmed that maybe the beavers were killed. Last week I got the real story.
In the course of researching beaver prevalence in California we found a delightful book written by a Sutter Creek native. He described his father, who was born at the turn of the century, checking his traps on the way to school and getting beaver, martin, fox. This was of course interesting to me as we’re talking 1600 feet elevation, and that if indeed beavers were trapped by his father it was about 10 years before the were “introduced”.
I promptly called the author to verify and ask about photos. He assured me that his father wouldn’t have mistakenly referred to trapping beaver because the pelts were so valuable. Sadly no photos, but in passing he mentioned the beaver dam that was there now, remarking that it had to be removed each year to allow for the rubber duck races that were held for charity.
I knew immediately which dam he was talking about, and was happy to hear the reason for its annual destruction. Still, I suggested, his town would be MUCH more recognized if they left the dam in place and had rubber beaver races instead.
I wonder if he’ll think about it.
