Broad Brook Coalition: Conservation needs everyone’s help

Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area offers our community the rare privilege of observing beavers in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, this privilege is now at risk. Visitors have been walking directly on beaver lodges, crushing these carefully constructed homes and forcing the animals to expend valuable energy on repairs. Also concerning, a sign explaining this harm was placed and quickly disappeared. Causing further harm, unleashed dogs disturb wildlife throughout the conservation area, despite clear regulations.

The consequences of these actions extend beyond the beavers themselves. When we lose respect for wildlife boundaries, we lose magical moments: the sight of a majestic beaver cruising at golden hour, the startling splash of a warning tail slap, or the delightful high-pitched sounds of beaver kits. Reptiles like snakes and turtles also suffer, unable to bask and regulate their body temperature when constantly disturbed.

According to wildlife biologists, beaver populations create biodiversity hotspots, improving habitat for countless other species. When we protect beavers, we protect entire ecosystems. Conservation requires a community commitment. It means creating space where both humans and wildlife can thrive together. As residents who value our natural heritage, we have a responsibility to respect wildlife boundaries and stay off beaver lodges, keep dogs leashed in protected areas, leave educational signs in place, and if you’re comfortable, gently remind others of these guidelines when you see violations.

Please help preserve what makes Fitzgerald Lake special. Our actions today determine whether future generations will enjoy this natural treasure tomorrow.

Christina White, on behalf of the board of Broad Brook Coalition

Florence