Beavers are an integral part of the Hudson landscape. They can be found on most waterways, including the Viviry River. Through dam building, beavers contribute to shaping the landscape and creating habitat for other species.
Beavers are particularly busy in the fall, preparing their homes for the winter. They cut down trees to build dams and lodges. This can cause serious damage to private properties, as a single beaver can chew down several trees per day and their dams can obstruct the flow of water causing flooding.
In Vaudreuil-Soulanges, the regional county municipality (MRC) is responsible for ensuring the integrated management of the outflow of water from waterways on its territory. This is particularly important to maintain in the present climate change context, where torrential downpours are increasingly frequent. It is also important that the waterways flow freely in the spring during periods of snow and ice melt. The MRC thus monitors waterways. Residents of Hudson and other towns within the MRC may call to signal to officials when waterways are obstructed.
The MRC exercises jurisdiction over the waterways within its territory pursuant to Section 105 of the Municipal Powers Act:
If informed of the presence in a watercourse of an obstacle that threatens the safety of persons or property, a regional county municipality must carry out the work required to restore normal water flow.
The MRC must restore the normal flow of water when it is informed of the presence of an obstruction that threatens the safety of people and property. The MRC must therefore remove beaver dams in cases where flooding is occurring.
Article 26 of the Act Respecting the Conservation and Development of Wildlife states that No person may disturb, destroy or damage a beaver dam or the eggs, nest or den of an animal. Exceptions exist for licenced trappers who may operate under strict rules.
In Quebec, relocating a wild animal is complex must be authorized by permit. In most cases, relocating beavers is not possible.
