After Groundhog Day 2026, a suggestion was made online for Columbus County to have its own animal that sees its shadow ahead of the Spring season. A group of community leaders are working, a year in advance, to make that a reality with The Beaver.

This initiative follows over a year of planning for a wildlife-themed community event this fall, with the beaver serving as the central theme. Columbus County residents likely recall this hard-working creature being mentioned in countless conversations about swamplands and stormwater flooding. In large part, this project aims to extend the conversation about the link between our natural wetlands and flooding, while celebrating the region’s amazing wildlife and swamp ecosystem.

Further details about this effort will be released to the public on March 21st, 2026. To join the mailing list or discuss ways you can become involved, please send an email to ColcoBeavers@gmail.com.

–“The Beaver Team”

Helen Holden – Swamp Stewards (NCWF)
Jason Elleby – Mayor, Town of Brunswick
John Deans – Beaver Board, Chairman
AC Cutler – Founder, NC Honey Festival