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Earthworm Watch

Help to map earthworms and soil health by taking part in this UK-based project

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Did you know that, globally, soils store roughly 80% of terrestrial carbon?

We all depend on healthy soils, and while we know that earthworms increase soil fertility and carbon storage by mixing dead plant material, there is still a lot to learn about these natural gardeners.

This is where Earthworm Watch comes in, and we need your help!

How you can get involved

Dig for science

Get your hands dirty counting earthworms and categorising soils with Earthworm Watch. This fun, free project is suitable for all ages.

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Why Earthworm Watch matters

1

Deep-living earthworms help lock carbon into the soil by pulling leaves into their deep, vertical burrows at night to eat.

2

Surface-feeding earthworms cycle nutrients by eating leaves, breaking them down into compost.

3

Soil-feeding earthworms make horizontal burrows which help mix air into the soil and improve drainage.

Why is Earthworm Watch important?

Without knowing more about how many and what types of earthworms there are in the UK, we are unable to map the key benefits that earthworms provide, including flood mitigation, and learn more about how to better manage our soil ecosystems.

By taking part in Earthworm Watch, not only will you have fun in the great outdoors, you’ll also be contributing to a real scientific research project.

Images: iStock/PhotographyFirm, Malcolm Bradbrook

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