Beaver Dam Issues

On June 10, 2025, the Milton Board of Health listened to a presentation by Marina Fernandez, the Director of the Department of Public Works. The Director explained that beavers had constructed dams in several locations along Pine Tree Brook obstructing the natural flow of the brook. 

Of particular concern was a large beaver dam near the Unquity Dam, which was preventing water from the 2.9 square miles of the Milton Conservation watershed from joining the Pine Tree Brook at the control point of the Unquity Dam. 

Normally the Unquity Dam would direct both waterways on its way under Unquity Road, but the beaver dam was preventing the watershed from joining with the brook. 

The results is the flooding of Harland Street and impeding traffic on the road. In some areas, the overflow reached depths of two feet, making safe travel impossible and necessitating the closure of Harland Street. 

Attorney Ned Corcoran, representing the Wollaston Golf Course, explained the concerns regarding flooding on their fairways caused by the backup, which is resulting in significant damage.

Corcoran also pointed out that the Wentworth Farm Road area relies on septic systems. Flooding could lead to considerable damage to these systems, as groundwater swelling and seepage might occur, potentially impacting the surrounding wetlands. 

Corcoran urged the Board to endorse the necessary removal of the beavers and their dams to address the issue effectively. Corcoran also stated that the Wollaston Golf Club would cover the expenses associated with trapping the beavers.

Roy Chambers discussed a similar issue further along the brook at the Harland Bridge, where the beavers have effectively obstructed the flow of the water, leading it to back up into an area that is usually dry. He expressed concern that the standing water creates an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 131, Section 80A, the Local Board of Health is authorized to permit the trapping and removal of beavers out of season if they are causing potential health issues that could affect the public.

Given the public's concerns and the significance of the issue, the Board of Health has agreed to the Department of Public Works' (DPW) request to trap and remove beavers from various locations along Pine Tree Brook. They voted to approve the emergency 10-day request to start after a trapper had been hired.

Note:

The removal of any animal from Blue Hills Conservation Land raises serious concerns, especially when it disrupts their natural habitat. We must remember that these animals were here long before us.