While the rumble of the combine harvester, tractor and baler continues all day and may not stop until well beyond dusk, we are hugely grateful for the wide range of wildlife the dedicated growers have supported on their farms: from silver-washed fritillary butterflies and mining bees to field vole and mice to barn owls and kestrels.

The Jordans’ farmers are not just stewards of the land creating food to feed whole communities; they are custodians of nature, creating vibrant ecosystems that support a rich diversity of wildlife. Together these growers manage more than 4,200 hectares of land for wildlife, including 776 kilometres of hedgerows and 548 hectares of field margins. These growers exemplify what it means to farm in harmony with the nature.

At the heart of this partnership is a commitment to sustainable farming practices that benefit both the land and restore wildlife. The growers, with the guidance of their local Wildlife Trust farm advisors, work tirelessly to create and maintain hedgerows, establish wildflower margins and restore waterways—all of which are essential for wildlife and contribute to the health of the environment and the success of their farms.

Take, for example, George Morris of Manor Farm in Hoggeston, Buckinghamshire. For generations, George's family has farmed this land, and they have always placed a strong emphasis on supporting the local wildlife. George has been growing oats for Jordans for over 20 years and his wildflower margins provide nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies, which in turn support the birds and bats that call the farm home. George's farm is a testament to the idea that farming and nature can coexist in a way that benefits both.

The Wildlife Trust advisors, like Giles Strother who works with George, play a crucial role in this partnership. They provide expert advice on how to manage the land to maximize its benefits for wildlife. Giles, for instance, has praised the Morris' farm for its excellent hedgerow management and the variety of habitats it supports. This collaboration ensures that the farms not only meet the JFP wildlife standard but also contribute to broader nature recovery networks.

Another inspiring example is Guy Tucker at Greenhall Farm in Hertfordshire. Guy’s innovative approach to farming has led to the creation of valuable habitats for small farmland birds, such as corn buntings and yellowhammers. By cutting his cereal crops higher off the ground, Guy inadvertently created a safe haven for these birds, allowing them to escape predators and thrive. This is just one of the many ways that Guy manages to support wildlife on his farmland.

The impact of these efforts extends beyond individual farms. Mark Tufnell’s work in Gloucestershire, where he has planted over 1,000 meters of new hedgerows, demonstrates the importance of connectivity in creating wildlife-friendly landscapes. These hedgerows not only provide food and shelter for wildlife but also link different habitats, allowing species to move across the landscape.

In Hampshire, Nick Rowsell’s dedication to restoring chalk grasslands, one of the most threatened habitats in the UK, showcases the potential of farming to reverse environmental decline. With the support of his Wildlife Trust advisor, Nick has created a network of habitats that support a wide range of species, from butterflies to birds of prey. His farm is a shining example of how sustainable farming practices can contribute to broader conservation goals.

As we celebrate the harvest season, it’s important to recognize and honour the growers who are making a difference. Their commitment to farming with nature, supported by Jordans’ partnership with The Wildlife Trusts, is helping to create a more sustainable and wildlife-friendly future.

For many farmers, the harvest is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. The connection to the land, the satisfaction of seeing a good crop come in and the presence of wildlife intertwines. It is in these moments—where we’d like to thank them heartily for their hard work. On a JFP farm, the harvest is a true celebration of life, both cultivated and wild nature is in harmony.