Balancing The Scales is a groundbreaking new documentary from Beaver Trust and acclaimed filmmaker Nina Constable, funded by The European Nature Trust. Narrated by Joanna Lumley, the film is the first in Britain to explore the intricate relationship between reintroduced beavers and the delicate conservation needs of migratory fish populations. 

Balancing The Scales premiered in the UK in February this year and it is now available for private screenings, so I registered WildHub for an online screening as I thought this would be a fantastic opportunity for us all at WildHub to watch it together and perhaps have a chat about it afterwards. I have considered the idea of inviting some river restoration/beaver/fish experts to join us for a Q&A if this is of interest? Please drop a comment below if you have any suggestions or thoughts on this.

I made a poll to gauge interest and availability so please click here and let's find a time that works best for everyone!  

The documentary brings together leading experts, stunning visuals, and the most up-to-date research. It shines a light on how two critical aspects of freshwater ecosystems — beaver-engineered habitats and migratory fish species — might coexist and thrive in Britain’s evolving landscapes.

Migratory fish populations are declining in all regions of the world. Dams, mining and humans diverting water are destroying river ecosystems. In Europe, populations of migratory freshwater fishes have fallen by 75%, according to the latest update to the Living Planet Index. Migratory freshwater fish partially or exclusively rely on freshwater systems – some are born at sea and migrate back into fresh water, or vice versa. They can in some cases swim the width of entire continents and then return to the stream in which they were born. They form the basis for the diets and livelihoods of millions of people globally. Many rivers, however, are no longer flowing freely due to the construction of dams and other barriers, which block species’ migrations. There are an estimated 1.2m barriers across European rivers.

This decline in migratory fish populations is a wake-up call for the world. WE MUST SAVE THESE KEYSTONE SPECIES AND THEIR RIVERS! This is exactly why I invite you to come along and watch this documentary with us to find out more about the state of our rivers and how our friends the beavers can help. Incorporating perspectives from scientists both in Britain and abroad, the film examines how international efforts can inform the British approach. You will hear from experts in Norway and the US, both nations with notable beaver populations and long histories of managing fish migrations. Their global perspectives and case studies provide invaluable context to the situation in Britain, offering guidance and consideration to our own approach. You do not want to miss this!

Check out the trailer below👇

🐟🦫 For more information about the documentary, please visit the Beaver Trust's website 👉 https://beavertrust.org/our-work/balancing-the-scales/