The Józefów Forest District withdrew a proposal to cull 35 beavers just before a major forest fire broke out in the region, according to environmental authorities.
The Beaver Culling Proposal
According to information from the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection (RDOŚ) in Lublin, a citizen appeal signed by more than 9,000 people was received on April 7, opposing a planned permit to deviate from protections for the European beaver.
The Józefów Forest District’s application concerned the culling of 35 beavers and the destruction of seven dams in the Dębowce and Kalina forestry areas.
Legal Status and Withdrawal
RDOŚ emphasized that the proceedings did not end with a substantive decision. The Józefów Forest District withdrew its application on March 31, meaning there were no further grounds to proceed, and RDOŚ closed the case entirely on April 1.
Documents also indicate that even if the application had not been withdrawn, the authority would have found grounds for a positive assessment. However, the analysis pointed to a failure to meet prerequisites regarding the lack of alternative solutions and the failure to demonstrate a lack of negative impact on the species’ protection status.
Expert View: An Irresponsible Idea
Biologist Michał Żmihorski commented on social media that while he does not know the details of the planned culling, the idea of exterminating beavers during increasing fire risks and dramatic water deficits seems “extremely irresponsible.” He warned that such management offers no chance against accelerating climate change.
Beavers increase water retention and locally improve habitat moisture, which can limit forest flammability, although their impact on fire risk is indirect and depends on broader hydrological and climatic conditions.
Fire in Józefów
A firefighting operation is currently underway in the Józefów Forest District due to a large forest fire. The fire has covered extensive areas, involving numerous State Fire Service units. Authorities have not reported the cause of the fire at this stage.