More than 500 locals have introduced rare plants to wetland and freshwater habitats after caring for them at home.
The Oxfordshire volunteers took part in Freshwater Habitats Trust's 2023 GroWet project which aimed to restore and regenerate the county's fens and historic floodplains by reintroducing plants that were once plentiful.
People were invited over the summer to grow rare and endangered wetland plants at home or in community centres as part of the 'national evidence-based conservation' charity's efforts.
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A GroWet volunteer, who did not wish to be named, said: "I feel lucky that I am able to directly contribute towards the conservation and preservation of our natural habitats for wildlife to continue to thrive.’’
The Trust has planted out more than 650 rare wetland plants across Oxford with more being propagated for next year.
Over 500 locals nurtured the rare plants. (Image: Contribution.)
Efforts come as part of a programme of work to introduce rare plants to other ponds, streams and wetlands across the country.
Some of these, such as Creeping Marshwort, are so rare that they are at risk of becoming extinct.
The plants, which were grown from seed and cuttings at Oxford Botanic Garden, are now strong enough to be introduced to wild habitats.
It is hoped that the plants will provide habitats for wildlife ranging from amphibians, including protected species such as the Common Toad, to insects, including dragonflies and damselflies, mammals and birds.
Freshwater Habitats Trust community engagement officer Lizzie Every said: “GroWet has had such a positive response from people across Oxfordshire and we’ve really enjoyed working with local people to make a difference across the county.
Over 500 locals nurtured the rare plants. (Image: Contribution.)
"GroWet has given people the opportunity to do something practical that could make a real difference to wildlife on their doorstep.
"Caring for a rare plant at home has also connected people to our beautiful but threatened wetlands."
Prof Jeremy Briggs, chief executive of the trust, added: “Life in freshwaters is under severe threat.
"Globally, freshwater habitats and the species they support are among the most vulnerable parts of the natural world and there is clear evidence of the need for new measures to protect freshwater biodiversity.
"GroWet is part of our response to this huge challenge for biodiversity.
Over 500 locals nurtured the rare plants. (Image: Contribution.)
"It also brings benefits to people by increasing the resilience of the local landscape to climate change, boosting mental health through access to wildlife-rich green spaces and providing free opportunities for people to volunteer and learn about their landscape through the events we are running.’’
GroWet is part of the Oxfordshire-Buckinghamshire Freshwater Network project.
Freshwater Habitats Trust is continuing to run events and volunteering opportunities, and is working with local landowners, to create and restore wetland habitats across Oxfordshire.
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