More rare than rain forests, our important natural waterways are under fresh focus with a county-wide discover, restore and enhance strategy
Chalk streams are considered to be some of the rarest and most ecologically significant habitats on Earth. Fed by pure groundwater that has been filtered through natural chalk aquifers, they have distinct characteristics that support high biodiversity. They are important and need protecting.
In Lincolnshire we have around 11% of England’s chalk streams across the Lincolnshire Wolds which go on to flow out to the surrounding county coastline. That works out to about 140 miles of one of the most scarce habitats for wildlife on the planet, right on our doorstep.
An important part of the success of these streams is the Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project, a partnership between fourteen organisations which began in 2003 and has, over the last 20 years, spent more than £4.5m to benefit the streams and the wildlife that uses them.
A large part of that funding has gone into restoring nearly 19 miles (around 30km) of chalk streams and surrounding land.
To mark the good work that has happened so far, the partnership is launching a new strategic vision so that our chalk streams in Lincolnshire are better projected. Over the next ten years the partnership aims to:
- Discover more about chalk streams by engaging landowners, farmers, communities, local businesses and partner organisations in conservation efforts, promoting awareness and active participation in preserving these unique habitats.
- Restore the county streams natural resilience by helping these ecosystems to recover and thrive, creating a healthier environment for local wildlife and people.
- Enhance biodiversity, strengthen community stewardship, and build a resilient future ensuring lasting ecological and social benefits.
There is a range of educational, social and public engagement opportunities available to members of the public around the work being done to maintain and encourage the county’s chalk streams.
Find out more about what you can do to learn, or take part in the conservation by going to: www.lincolnshirechalkstreams.org.