Grant scheme to create vital wetland habitats in the Evenlode catchment
The Evenlode Catchment Partnership (ECP) is pleased to announce the re-opening of their Wetland Creation Grant Scheme (WCGS). The scheme is open to farmers, landowners and communities within the Evenlode catchment who want to create wetland habitat on their holdings. Wetlands are critical habitats for wildlife and can improve water quality, reduce flood risks and provide opportunities for education and recreation.
Why wetlands matter
Wetlands are some of the most dynamic and valuable ecosystems on Earth. They occupy that magical in-between space – not quite land, not quite water – where life thrives in abundance. The water table in these areas is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically flooded with shallow water, creating perfect conditions for specialist plants and animals.
Over time, wetlands shift and evolve, forming intricate habitats that provide a home for a remarkable diversity of species. Beyond their beauty and biodiversity, wetlands deliver powerful ecosystem services: they filter pollutants, store carbon, slow down floodwaters, and support resilient landscapes.
What the scheme offers
The WCGS is offering up to 100% of project costs, with the average wetland expected to cost around £20,000. If an applicant’s vision is larger or more complex, the ECP would still love to hear from them; ambitious ideas are welcome. The WCGS is open for applications until Summer 2026, and projects must be completed by the end of 2026.
The ECP previously ran the WCGS successfully from 2022-2024, creating 17 ponds, 1 wetland, and reconnecting 585 m of watercourse to its floodplain. The scheme has now re-launched with more flexible criteria, a simplified process, and additional support for applicants.
The WCGS is an invitation to be part of a landscape-scale movement to restore nature, water, and wildlife across the Evenlode catchment. Whether grant applicants are looking to transform a damp corner of a field, restore a former pond site, or reimagine an area of floodplain, this is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting difference for the environment and the local community.
Funding secured
This iteration of the WCGS is funded by the Water Restoration Fund. The ECP is one of 51 projects across England to have received funding from the Water Restoration Fund. The WCGS is an ECP project that will be delivered by Trust for Oxfordshire’s Environment (TOE) in partnership with Wild Oxfordshire, the host organisation of the ECP and the Water Restoration Fund grant recipient, and Natural England.
Ann Berkeley said, “We are delighted to re-open our Wetland Creation Grant Scheme for the Evenlode catchment. Over the past 100 years, the UK has lost 90% of its wetlands. These habitats are vital for our wildlife. The scheme aims to support the creation of as many new ponds and wetlands of as great a variety as possible. We hope that landowners and community groups will come forward to discuss what wetland projects might be possible on their land.”
Contact us
More information about the WCGS can be found in the Scheme Handbook, available on our website here.
If you are interested in applying to the WCGS, contact Ann Berkeley (Scheme Manager) on ann@wildoxfordshire.org.uk or 01865 407429
Notes to Editors
About the Evenlode Catchment Partnership (ECP)
The Evenlode Catchment Partnership was established in 2014 and is a collaborative effort aimed at preserving and enhancing the water quality and ecological health of the River Evenlode and its tributaries. Comprising local organizations, conservationists, and citizen scientists, the ECP is committed to safeguarding the natural environment for the benefit of future generations.
About the Water Restoration Fund
The Water Restoration Fund is a UK government initiative administered by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The Water Restoration Fund has up to £11 million to fund local projects. The Fund will be used to restore and enhance the water environment in specified geographical areas, using environmental fines and penalties collected from water and sewerage companies in those areas between April 2022 and October 2023.
