Sample collection example on left and site collection on right (Salix laurina at Catherine's water). Photo: Solene Giraudeau-Potel
The Shetland Amenity Trust gathered genetic data on Shetland’s native willow to develop conservation actions required for relict trees. The aim of this project was to generate genetic diversity information about the different willow species currently present across Shetland, to provide a better understanding of individual species diversity and the population health at different sites.
There is little information available on tree and woodland history in Shetland, so this work has helped to support the development of a Shetland Tree Conservation Strategy. It has also helped to inform the selection of trees for propagation and so helped to develop a diverse stock. The project helped to develop future research projects focusing on the other relict tree species at risk. The findings have strengthened the case for developing stronger conservation projects and “will raise awareness of the requirement of a woodland conservation strategy, leading to legal protection of the wild trees at risk in Shetland”.
