Meet Will Heap: Our Young Ecologist Making a Big Impact

Meet Will Heap: Our Young Ecologist Making a Big Impact

Bringing a fresh perspective to conservation

At JSR, caring for the environment is a team effort, and in August 2025, a new generation joined the mission when ecologist Will Heap joined the company. Bringing fresh expertise and energy, Will has quickly become central to our ongoing conservation projects.

Driving JSR’s 30-year BNG project

Will’s role is central to JSR’s 30-year Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) project, working to restore and enhance the Chalk Stream Sanctuary, including the chalk streams themselves, wetland areas, grasslands, and woodlands across JSR’s farmland. His work includes ecological surveys, mapping, and tracking biodiversity trends, helping ensure that every project supports wildlife and strengthens ecosystems.

Will Heap, ecologist at JSR

A strong foundation in environmental science

Before joining JSR, Will studied Geography at Manchester University, followed by a master’s in Environmental Monitoring, Modelling and Reconstruction. Alongside his studies, Will has volunteered extensively on conservation projects, and his genuine passion for protecting wildlife drives his hands-on approach to every ecological challenge.

Learning from a JSR stalwart

At the sanctuary, Will is working closely with Mark Richardson, a JSR veteran who has dedicated 45 years to the farm. Mark has led JSR’s environmental stewardship for decades, overseeing:

• Environmental strips and beetle banks
• Owl and bat boxes
• Woodland management
• Pollen and nectar mixes
• Hedge planting
• Wildflower strips and meadows

Mark’s knowledge of flora and fauna is exceptional, and through mentoring Will, he is ensuring that this expertise is passed on to a new generation of conservationists.

Will Heap working alongside Mark Richardson, combining experience and innovation to enhance habitats

Will says:

“Joining JSR has been an incredible opportunity. Working alongside Mark and the team, I’ve been able to apply my knowledge in real-world conservation, and it’s amazing to see the tangible impact our work has on the sanctuary and its wildlife,”

Expert ecological services for your project

JSR also offers professional ecological surveys and consultancy services for external clients. If you’re a developer, landowner, or consultant looking to achieve Biodiversity Net Gain or enhance habitats on your site, get in touch with us today by emailing info@jsr.co.uk