I've been under contract with a few subdivisions the last couple of years removing muskrats from their lakes. They are located around prime muskrat habitat and have been dealing with them for years. They have incurred major damage over time, as the bank has eroded and collapsed. Of course I can't do anything about the dens that were already made in years prior, and although I've been keeping up with the muskrat removal fairly well, I can't be there 24/7, so when another one moves in, it can cause more damage before anyone calls to notify me.
Although the HOA's pay for the removal, I have been approached by several landowners who would like a permanent solution for their property. I know I've seen it mentioned here before, but has anyone ever successfully done muskrat exclusion work? I was thinking PVC coated welded wire, starting at the edge of the yard and extending out to at least 6 feet into the water, and then cover that with rip rap? One subdivision is very large and quite expensive, so I know once I do one several more will jump on board, and I don't want to take this on if it's going to be a futile effort.
My biggest concern is that if you're not doing the entire lake at one time, muskrats could potentially come in from the sides of the wire barrier where the property ends. Still, I would think they would go for the easier areas that have no barrier. Any thoughts or opinions? Thanks.