JSR’s Chalk Stream Sanctuary: A Home for Wildlife to Flourish

JSR’s Chalk Stream Sanctuary: A Home for Wildlife to Flourish

A commitment to nature

JSR’s Chalk Stream Sanctuary is a unique part of the farm, created to let wildlife flourish. Chief Executive, Tim Rymer, envisioned a place where the rare chalk streams running through our land could be carefully protected and enhanced. Today, that vision has become a reality.  The Chalk Stream Sanctuary is now a 50-hectare haven for nature and biodiversity.

From willow coppice to native woodland

In November 2021 an area of willow, previously planted as a short rotation coppice for renewable energy, was removed. While the coppice had served its purpose, the environmental benefits were limited. In its place, more than 6,000 native, multi-species trees were planted in January 2022. Since then, a variety of indigenous grasses and wildflowers have been planted creating a far richer habitat for the wildlife that call the sanctuary home.

Native trees planted to create diverse new habitats in the sanctuary.

Supporting wildlife across habitats

To attract a wide range of species, we have created several pond scrapes in low-lying, wetter areas, perfect for wading birds and wetland species. We are also:

• Enriching wildflower meadows
• Improving grasslands to become species-rich
• Enhancing existing native woodlands
• Introducing grazing to naturally maintain areas of neutral grassland

Pond scrapes have been created in naturally wet areas for native wading birds.

A sanctuary within chalk stream boundaries

Nestled within the Eastburn and Southburn chalk streams, the sanctuary is becoming an increasingly diverse area for wildlife. It also forms part of JSR’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) work.  The diversity of habitats here allows us to offer a range of options for developers looking to offset biodiversity loss whilst safeguarding this unique ecosystem for generations to come.

A living testament to care and conservation

At JSR, this sanctuary is more than just a conservation project, it’s a living testament to the commitment and care of our team, inspired by Tim’s vision. It’s a home where both wildlife and people can enjoy the beauty of the chalk stream for years to come.

JSR’s Chalk Stream Sanctuary: thriving habitats for wildlife and people alike.