DNA project to restore rare black poplars in Thames Valley — SkimNews
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- Swindon to Oxford: Regenerating the Thames and Tributaries is leading a nature recovery programme to restore black poplar trees across the Thames Valley using DNA analysis, propagation, and replanting.
- Catrina Bass from the Long Mead Foundation said black poplars are 'extraordinary survivors' but noted only 50 are currently recorded in Oxfordshire, highlighting their ecological value for species like the poplar hornet moth.
- West Oxfordshire District Council and Vale of White Horse Council provided initial funding, and the project is now raising £20,000 to support DNA testing and planting efforts.
- Oxfordshire County Council has committed to match-fund the public fundraiser up to £10,000 under its Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
- Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment is partnering on the project, working with community groups to support local environmental restoration, including floodplain tree regeneration.
- Benjamin Heaven Taylor said the remaining black poplar population is 'extremely fragmented' and emphasized the trees' role in reducing flood risk by holding water in river corridors.
Why it matters: With only 50 black poplars left in Oxfordshire, this project directly intervenes in a collapsing native population—£20,000 in raised funds could unlock £30,000 total with match funding, accelerating habitat and flood resilience gains across the Thames floodplain.
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