Case Study: Oxygen Conservation restores River Thet biodiversity with NatureMetrics eDNA

Oxygen Conservation maps 54 vertebrate species with NatureMetrics to guide River Thet restoration

Oxygen Conservation, an organization focused on tackling climate change and biodiversity loss, faced the challenge of restoring a section of the River Thet in Norfolk without comprehensive recent biodiversity data. They needed a non-invasive survey method to inform their ambitious plans, navigate complex stakeholder interests, and address concerns about invasive species, all while enabling evidence-based decision-making. They partnered with NatureMetrics to utilize its eDNA survey solution.

NatureMetrics implemented a comprehensive eDNA survey, sampling multiple aquatic habitats and analyzing the samples with metabarcoding assays for vertebrates and macroinvertebrates. The results provided a robust biodiversity baseline, detecting 54 vertebrate species and 504 insect taxa, including protected species like the European eel and water vole. This data directly informed Oxygen Conservation's restoration strategy, allowing them to set measurable targets, track future biodiversity gains, and effectively communicate with stakeholders. The success of this project has led to discussions about using NatureMetrics' eDNA services across other sites in their portfolio.

Oxygen Conservation