Rare Arctic-Alpine Plants to Benefit from New Conservation Project
A three-year initiative funded by a £65,000 grant will see volunteers collect and replant seeds of endangered arctic-alpine flora in Upper Teesdale.
A new project aimed at safeguarding the future of rare arctic-alpine plants in Upper Teesdale is set to launch following the award of a £65,000 grant. The three-year scheme, managed by the Teesdale Special Flora Research and Conservation Trust, will involve volunteers working to collect seeds and then reintroduce them to the fells of Upper Teesdale.
The funding comes from the government's Farming in Protected Landscapes programme and was awarded by the North Pennines National Landscape. The initiative seeks to raise awareness about the delicate nature of the region's unique plant life. "This project is crucial to support the ongoing research and conservation of these rare species," said Dr. Margaret Bradshaw, founder of the trust.
Upper Teesdale is recognized for hosting an exceptional diversity of rare plant species, including the Teesdale Assemblage. This distinctive collection comprises 20 rare and endangered arctic-alpine plants that are believed to have persisted in the area since the end of the last glaciation, approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. The trust is also undertaking a separate fundraising effort to gather an additional £15,000 to further support the project's activities.
Sarah Tooze, programme manager for natural heritage at the North Pennines National Landscape, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. "We are looking forward to working with local farmers on ways to support these fragile species," she stated, highlighting the importance of local land management in conservation efforts.