Request for Public Hearing Before Beaver Removal – Dutch Creek (Littleton)

Dear Neighbors,

Our beavers are more than wildlife—they are natural protectors of our water systems and wetlands.

The Leawood Metropolitan Recreation District (LMPRD) is currently moving forward with plans to remove beavers near Dutch Creek and Weaver Park. This decision impacts not only District residents but also neighboring communities and HOAs connected by shared waterways.

We believe the community deserves the opportunity to be informed and heard before any irreversible action is taken.

 
This petition formally requests transparency, public input, and due process regarding the proposed removal of beavers as outlined in the LMPRD Beaver Management Plan:
https://leawoodparks.colorado.gov/sites/leawoodparks/files/documents/Beaver%20Plan.pdf

 
Whereas:
The LMRD is proceeding with beaver removal actions without a dedicated public hearing focused specifically on this issue
Beavers are widely recognized as a keystone species that support water retention, wetlands, biodiversity, and natural fire resistance—critical benefits in drought-prone Colorado. Beaver relocation success is just 26%.
Dutch Creek and surrounding waterways cross jurisdictional boundaries, impacting adjacent HOAs and communities beyond the District
Removal of beavers may have downstream ecological and hydrological impacts affecting multiple neighborhoods
Many residents—both within and adjacent to the District—have not had the opportunity to review the plan, ask questions, or provide input
 
We respectfully request that LMRD:
Pause any active or planned beaver removal actions
Hold a formal public hearing specifically on beaver management, including:Full presentation of the Beaver Management Plan
Discussion of environmental impacts, including drought and fire resilience
Opportunity for public questions and comment
Allow meaningful community input prior to any final decision, including consideration of residents from adjacent affected areas
Ensure transparent communication regarding timelines, decisions, and environmental impacts
 
Statement of Good Faith
This petition is submitted in the spirit of collaboration, environmental stewardship, and responsible public process.

A decision of this importance—impacting shared waterways and ecosystems—should reflect informed community input.

 
Acknowledgment
By signing, you support a public hearing and community input before beaver removal decisions are finalized.

NOTE: No Donations are needed. You can email the Leawood Metro Recreation Recreation and Park District to say No to relocation the Beavers: leawoodparks@gmail.com