Public Perceptions 

What are the public's preferred coexistence strategies for managing urban beaver populations, and how do these preferences vary by demographic factors such as age, education level, and proximity to water bodies?

•  Rationale: This question seeks to understand the specific management practices urban residents favor (e.g., non-lethal methods, habitat modifications, or legal protections) and investigates how demographic characteristics influence these preferences. Addressing this question can reveal whether particular groups are more inclined toward certain strategies, offering insights for targeted management and communication strategies. 

How do public perceptions of the ecological and social benefits of urban beaver populations influence support for coexistence strategies in the Tualatin River watershed? 

• Rationale: This question aims to assess how perceptions of beaver-related benefits (such as biodiversity enhancement, water purification, and flood mitigation) correlate with support for specific management strategies. Understanding these connections can guide public engagement efforts by emphasizing the ecosystem services that align with the community’s values, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for coexistence policies. 

This study underscores the importance of coexistence strategies in urban beaver management to minimize conflict and foster mutual benefits. Survey results reveal that preferences for non-lethal coexistence practices—such as educational initiatives, flow devices, and habitat modifications—are influenced by public perceptions of beaver-related ecological benefits. Participants with greater knowledge of these benefits showed higher support for coexistence strategies, highlighting the need for public education as a foundational tool in urban wildlife management. This approach is essential in avoiding polarized views that can arise when residents are uninformed about the ecological contributions beavers offer, such as water purification and habitat creation. Moreover, targeted communication efforts that address the values of different demographic groups (e.g., age, education level, proximity to water bodies) may further enhance public support for sustainable beaver management practices.

When conflicts do arise, fostering a community-wide understanding and alignment on management practices can better prepare all stakeholders, ensuring decisions are met with less resistance and more support. The data indicate that when communities are informed and engaged in management discussions, they are more likely to favor coexistence over reactive measures. This alignment not only reduces the likelihood of contentious disputes but also promotes proactive, community-driven solutions that resonate with the ecological and social needs of the area. Ultimately, integrating coexistence-focused strategies into urban planning frameworks will contribute to a resilient, balanced urban ecosystem, where beavers and humans can coexist harmoniously.