Soules Trappers Take 13 Beaver So Far; More Work Planned

In several spots, debris left over from hurricanes have been added to by beavers building feed piles.

Trappers have removed 13 beavers from the Soules Swamp in Whiteville, and work is continuing as part of efforts to improve drainage downtown.

Emergency Services Director Hal Lowder told City Council on Tuesday that work is underway, and plans are being made to remove several dams along the run of the swamp when the current population of beavers are gone.

“This is a key step before the upcoming waterway cleanout using an amphibious vehicle,” Lowder said.

After the trapping is complete, Lowder said, the dams will be removed and work will begin on clear drainage corridors to a minimum width of 12 feet.

“This will speed up stormwater exiting the city and reduce flooding downtown and in neighborhoods,” he explained.

The trapping is being handled through the county Beaver Board, which pays trappers a bounty for each beaver harvested from registered waterways. The program has been in effect since 2012. The trapping is scheduled through the Soil and Water Conservation office.

Lowder noted that landowners play a role in controlling beaver populations, since trappers cannot enter private property without permission. He said members of the Beaver Board will be contacting property owners along the target area to gain permission to cross their land for trapping and later for access during the cleanout.

“Everyone’s cooperation is critical,” Lowder said. “Cleaning out the entire corridor will benefit everyone in the community.”