Project to restore rare native trees with DNA testing — SkimNews
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- Swindon to Oxford: Regenerating the Thames and Tributaries is leading a project to restore black poplar populations across the Thames Valley using DNA analysis of existing trees and propagation of new cuttings
- Catrina Bass from the Long Mead Foundation described black poplars as 'extraordinary survivors' with 'great gnarled trunks' and noted only 50 are currently recorded in Oxfordshire
- Black poplar trees support wildlife like the poplar hornet moth and help reduce flood risk by holding water back along rivers and floodplains, according to conservationists
- Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment is partnering on the project, working with community groups to fund and implement local restoration efforts
- West Oxfordshire District Council and Vale of White Horse Council provided initial funding, and Oxfordshire County Council has committed to match up to £10,000 of a £20,000 public fundraiser
Why it matters: With only 50 black poplars left in Oxfordshire, this project directly addresses a critical biodiversity gap. The £20,000 fundraiser—half of which will be matched—enables DNA-guided restoration that could stabilize a fragmented population essential for flood mitigation and species survival.
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