Des Moines Parks Relocated Two Beavers

The city moved two beavers from Gray’s Lake after they caused damage by felling trees.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Wildlife

The Des Moines Parks Department trapped and relocated two beavers from Gray’s Lake following reports of downed trees. The removals occurred on September 17, 2026, and September 25, 2026.

Why it matters

The relocation was deemed necessary after the beavers caused physical damage to the park's landscape. City officials took action to protect the remaining vegetation at Gray’s Lake.

Officials confirmed that two cottonwood trees were felled by the beavers during the recent activity. Staff are currently monitoring two remaining trees left unwrapped by chicken wire.

The players

Des Moines Parks Department

This local government agency is responsible for the maintenance and management of public parks and green spaces within the city of Des Moines.

The details

A professional contractor captured the animals after staff identified them in the early morning hours. To prevent further damage, the department installed chicken wire around most of the park's cottonwood trees.

Staff noticed minor tree damage in Summer 2026.
The first beaver was captured on September 17, 2026.
The second beaver was captured on September 25, 2026.

Culture Shift

This intervention highlights the ongoing efforts to balance local wildlife preservation with the maintenance of urban recreational spaces. It marks a departure from the city's five-year period without documented beaver activity.

Park visitors may notice chicken wire wrapping on cottonwood trees as part of the ongoing preservation effort. These measures are intended to maintain the aesthetic and safety of the walking paths at Gray’s Lake.

The takeaway

Wildlife management in urban parks requires constant vigilance to protect sensitive landscape assets. Residents should report any future sightings of structural damage in city parks to local authorities.