This expansive area of grassland sits within one of Lincolnshire’s most nature-depleted landscapes, surrounded by intensively farmed land. It provides a rare opportunity to create a thriving nature reserve for skylark, yellowhammer, bees and butterflies, wildflowers and wetland species, while restoring soil health and supporting climate resilience. 

Thanks to a short-term land purchase agreement with the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the Trust has been able to take immediate steps to safeguard the site from a return to intensive agriculture. This agreement provides a vital window of time to secure the funds needed to purchase the land and protect it permanently. 

The Trust’s long-term aim is to buy the site for £1.4 million, ensuring it can be managed in perpetuity for nature through low-intensity grazing, habitat restoration and improved river-edge management. 

Over the coming months, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust will be appealing to members, supporters, charitable trusts, foundations and local businesses to help make this possible. 

As part of the wider £1.4m fundraising effort, the Trust will be seeking £400,000 from public donations and corporate supporters to protect this precious landscape for future generations. 

To find out more about the Hawthorpe appeal and how you can help, visit the appeal page of our website.