Heidi Perryman
Tuesday’s first subcommittee meeting demonstrated a city staff and council that has come to think of the beavers as an asset to be protected. There was frank discussion of their benefits and challenges, and a firm readiness demonstrated by the city that it is ready to deal with both.
City staff outlined their plan for urgent response to rising water by moving equipment into place when the water approaches two feet from the bridge, and beginning to chip away at the dam if it rose more than one foot below the bridge. There was firm indication that water flow management expert Skip Lisle will attend next weeks meeting and begin work on leveler devices.
In the mean time the city may notch the dam to drain water, although there is every inidcation that the beavers will quickly repair that. Issues of water quality, fish, and wildlife were discussed, as well as possible volunteer coordination including a beaver docent program, a willow restocking project, and a kayakers clean-up club.
The subcommittee plans to conclude its goals in 90 days, with an immediate response to the water control issue. All in all, it was a good night for beavers.
Despite her previous expressed interest Ms. Tappel indicated the same day to Mr. Ross that she would not be available and did not attend the meeting.
