Ann Arbor Officials Euthanize Beavers at Leslie Park Amid Flooding Concerns

Washtenaw County and City of Ann Arbor officials decided to euthanize a family of beavers at Leslie Park Golf Course due to concerns about extensive dam construction causing potential flooding and damage to infrastructure along Traver Creek. Despite public outcry and advocacy for relocation or non-lethal methods, state regulations prohibit trapping and relocating beavers, and officials deemed alternatives such as beaver pipes uncertain and risky in this specific context. The Water Resources Commissioner’s office consulted with experts and evaluated options before concluding that killing the beavers was necessary to prevent significant damage to the golf course and nearby critical road and rail crossings. Animal advocates and residents criticized the decision, arguing for more humane and sustainable solutions, highlighting the ecological importance of beavers as keystone species that enhance biodiversity and water quality. Officials have expressed commitment to monitoring beaver activity and continuing to explore alternative management strategies in the future. The controversy underscores the challenges of balancing wildlife conservation with urban infrastructure protection under current regulatory frameworks.