Project to restore rare native trees with DNA testing
A Thames Valley conservation project is using DNA testing to help restore England’s rare black poplar trees, whose numbers have fallen after decades of felling, drainage and habitat loss. The work matters because the trees support wildlife and can help reduce flood risk by holding water along rivers and floodplains.
There are only 50 recorded black poplars in Oxfordshire, and the remaining population is highly fragmented. The project will analyse existing trees, grow new ones from cuttings and plant them at suitable sites; it is seeking £20,000, with Oxfordshire County Council offering to match fundraising up to £10,000.
In short
- DNA testing will guide efforts to restore rare black poplars.
- Oxfordshire has just 50 recorded trees.
- The project aims to raise £20,000, with match funding available.