Solothurn: Hunting Law Permits Measures Against Beavers

The Solothurn Hunting Law is being aligned with federal law.

With the partial revision of the cantonal hunting law adopted by the cantonal council on 11 September 2024, measures against beaver damage can in future be supported, and compensation can also be provided for roads and riverbanks.

With 78 votes in favour to 10 against, the cantonal council clearly approved the new hunting law (JaG) on Wednesday. This now also establishes at cantonal level that protected wild animals such as bears, wolves or beavers may be shot if they pose a threat to people.

A beaver could be released for culling if it were to attack swimmers in the water “apparently without provocation.” For carrying out such culls, the canton may oblige hunting associations, as the cantonal council decided by 54 votes in favour to 37 against, on the motion of the Environment, Construction and Economic Commission (Umbawiko).

Financial support for the prevention of beaver damage

Even today, the federal government and the canton contribute to beaver damage in forests and to agricultural crops, it was noted during the debate. In future, measures to prevent beaver damage to structures and installations that serve the public interest are also to receive financial support.

The responsible cantonal councillor Brigit Wyss (Greens) told parliament that it was important for the law to come into force on 1 January 2025 so that the canton could support these measures. On the basis of the new law, the canton pays contributions for, among other things, agricultural roads or riverbanks where beaver damage has compromised flood safety.