Project to restore rare native trees with DNA testing
Conservation groups say black poplars are endangered due to felling, land drainage and habitat loss.
A conservation project in the Thames Valley aims to revive the dwindling population of rare black poplar trees using DNA testing. The Swindon to Oxford: Regenerating the Thames and Tributaries initiative is collaborating with local environmental groups to restore the tree's numbers along the River Thames and its floodplain. Catrina Bass, representing the Long Mead Foundation, highlighted the tree's unique appearance and ecological importance, noting there are only 50 black poplars left in Oxfordshire.
The project has secured initial funding from West Oxfordshire District Council and the Vale of White Horse Council but seeks an additional £20,000 to cover DNA analysis, propagation of new cuttings, and planting in appropriate locations. Oxfordshire County Council has pledged to match fund the fundraiser up to £10,000. The Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment, a key partner, focuses on environmental projects through community engagement.
Benjamin Heaven Taylor, CEO of the Trust, emphasized the crucial role black poplars play in flood mitigation, as they line rivers and floodplains, absorbing excess water. He pointed out that the remaining black poplar population is highly fragmented and requires assistance to recover.
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