Film screening exploring beavers and our landscapes

Nature enthusiasts are invited to attend a relaxed and thought-provoking evening at the Merlin Theatre, featuring a documentary that looks at what happens when beavers are reintroduced to our landscapes.

The screening is being organised by Frome Town Council and Frome Beaver Watch on Friday 19th September at 7pm, and will be followed by a panel discussion with local voices.

The film, Balancing the Scales, explores how beavers interact with people, land and water, and considers how we might find ways for nature and communities to thrive together.

Frome Town Councillor Sara Butler said, “Beavers build dams, slow down water and create amazing wetland habitats – but not everyone agrees on where and how they should be reintroduced. Balancing the Scales looks at all sides of the story.”

After the film, there will be a panel chat with local voices, nature lovers and rewilding experts, including Sophie Ricardo – Frome local and founder of Frome Beaver Watch, who will give the lowdown on what is happening in our area. Frome Town Councillor Cllr Sara Butler will reflect on how nature fits into the council’s plans for a greener, more resilient town.

Derek Niemann, Guardian Country Diaries writer and conservation author, will bring a deep historical and cultural perspective on nature in the UK, and Nick Patel, nature guide and host of the Wilder Skies podcast, will bring a rewilding perspective and deep passion for wildlife.

Charly Le Marchant, from PocketfullofAcorns, Frome-based environmental filmmaker, is also on the panel and is passionate about bringing back woodlands and restoring balance in nature. Martin Blain – representing the Frome & District Angling Association, will offer a vital perspective from the local fishing community on river health, water flow and working with nature.

This event is part of Frome Town Council’s ongoing work to support biodiversity, respond to the climate emergency and involve the community in shaping the town’s future.

Cllr Sara Butler said, “This event isn’t just about beavers – it’s about how we live with nature and what we want our rivers, fields and towns to look like in the future. Come along to learn more about how we can work with wildlife – not against it – to create a healthier, more balanced future.”

The film is around 20 minutes long and will be followed by a panel discussion and plenty of time for questions and chat. Cllr Butler said, “We’d love to see you there – whether you’re passionate about wildlife, concerned about flooding, or just curious about what beavers might mean for Frome’s rivers.”

Tickets for the screening are just £5 per person and can be booked via The Merlin Theatre at www.bit.ly/balancingthescalesscreening    

Pictured: Beaver climbing a log ©Nina Constable