Where was seagrass recently planted in the UK?

Seagrass was recently planted in the river Don at Jarrow and the river Aln at Alnmouth.

Who is behind the seagrass planting initiative?

The initiative is being carried out by the Durham Wildlife Trust, with seeds grown by Tees Rivers Trust.

What are the initial results of the seagrass trial?

The initial observations indicate that the seagrass plants look healthy, which is a positive sign for their potential regrowth.

Home / Environment / Seagrass Returns to UK Rivers After Years of Effort

Seagrass Returns to UK Rivers After Years of Effort

4 Jan

•

Summary

Two seagrass patches were recently planted in UK rivers.
Seeds were cultivated at a specialist nursery in Hartlepool.
Initial observations show the seagrass plants look healthy.

Seagrass Returns to UK Rivers After Years of Effort

Efforts to reintroduce seagrass to UK waterways have seen a promising new phase with recent plantings in the rivers Don and Aln. These actions, undertaken at the end of November, represent the culmination of two years of dedicated background research and preparation by the Durham Wildlife Trust. The health of the transplanted seagrass is being closely monitored.

Specialist seagrass seeds used in this initiative were meticulously grown by project collaborators, the Tees Rivers Trust, at their dedicated nursery facility located in Hartlepool. This latest trial is a continuation of previous successful planting efforts, with the Tees Estuary having hosted similar projects in the preceding year, building a foundation of knowledge and optimism.

Early observations of the newly planted seagrass are encouraging, with Dr. Martina Bristow of the Durham Wildlife Trust noting that the plants appear healthy. This positive visual assessment is considered a very good sign, suggesting the potential for successful establishment and future recovery of seagrass in these riverine environments.