NRN (in partnership with Long Mead Foundation) have leased 4ha of monoculture willow coppice next to the community meadows by Eynsham Lock.
We plan to turn it into a species-rich wet woodland using local provenance trees, with seed gathered and propagated by the community. \;
To achieve this we are preparing the site by removing some of the present white willow and replacing it with wet woodland species: Bay willow, Black alder, White Birch, Grey willow (and Oak on the higher ground).
We are also planning a living library of extremely rare local native black poplar within the wet woodland. This will form a breeding population of male and female trees to maximise the gene pool and make the species resilient again, at the same time as instantly increasing the environmental value of the site. \;
Local expert Anna Rowlands eyeing up the Black Poplar at the Wharf Stream Willow Coppice - Photo Catriona Bass
Once established, the project will seek to re-create the native understorey and improve the habitat for birds and mammals by creating artificial habitats such as otter holts and bird boxes. \;
Join us all as we continue work to coppice and clear areas of the existing monoculture, alongside partners from Oxford Conservation Volunteers.
We'll also be planting out the network's hand propagated wildflower plants in Swinford meadows across the river as part of our Swinford Meadows Restoration Project, funded by Vale of White Horse District Council's Climate Action Fund.
Please dress suitably in outdoor clothing and bring your own refreshments.
Gardening gloves and boots or wellies are recommended.