Blue Remembered Hills
Black Poplars
One of our rarest trees is the native black poplar; with an estimated 8000 trees in UK the tree is considered vulnerable, especially as many are nearing the end of their natural life.
Fortunately the river valleys of the Shropshire Hills are a bit of a stronghold for the tree and the project is working hard to maintain this population.
Since the start of the project 450 trees have been distributed to 105 sites, many of which have a historical link with black poplar - so it is always nice to plant a tree where an old black poplar once stood.
The project is also working with landowners to conserve vulnerable old trees. Old trees are prone to collapse and at risk from gales, so careful tree surgery can take significantly reduce this risk to ensure these wonderful old trees remain a part of the landscape for years to come. To date the project has conducted practical works on 12 trees and written management plans for 22 trees.