Beavers on parachutes: Idaho's wild relocation project revealed
In the 1950s, the United States implemented a groundbreaking method of relocating beavers using parachutes. During that period, the beaver population in Idaho began to grow rapidly, which posed administrative challenges. The solution was to move beavers from populated areas to more remote and wild locations. However, this task encountered logistical difficulties.
In an attempt to address the challenges associated with transporting beavers, Idaho authorities came up with the idea of airlifting the animals. In 2015, film footage documenting this unusual project was revealed, providing evidence of this historical practice. The authorities were keen on relocating beavers due to their beneficial impact on the environment.
Unusual operation in Idaho
Beavers play a significant role in water retention. Their activities could reduce water management costs by up to 24 million dollars annually, with the dams they build serving as natural water reservoirs and supporting soil erosion prevention.
Parachutes made from materials from World War II were used to transport the beavers. The animals were placed in special containers, which were then dropped near water bodies. In this nearly entirely successful venture, 76 beavers participated. One beaver, which exited the container from a height of about 75 feet, encountered the most difficulties.
Over time, more lush vegetation has been observed in the newly inhabited areas. Although the method did not gain widespread popularity, it contributed to reforestation and reduced fire risk in the areas where the animals were settled.
