Exploring Jubilee Farm in County Antrim, Northern Ireland unveils a tale of triumph, evident in its vibrant community engagement and unwavering dedication to preserving nature.
The air is alive with the melodious trill of a dunnock hidden within the twisted hedgerow, while across the expanse, a blackbird fills the scene with its serenade. Lost momentarily in thought, a passage from an ancient tome comes to mind, "Consider the birds of the air." A sudden croak jerks me back to the present, my eyes tracing the flight of a raven towards Glynn Woods. Below, the azure waters of Larne Lough captivate my gaze, guided by Nuala's gesture to a patch of land hosting a bustling tern colony. Meanwhile, behind us, Geoff and Martin meticulously observe solitary bee species amidst the dandelion-dotted lawn. Just then, Matt, the orchestrator of Jubilee Farm’s Wildlife and Wellbeing Project, approaches, ready to lead us on our exploration.
Inspired by the ethos of creation care, this farm embodies a steadfast commitment to the interconnectedness of nurturing both people and the environment. While rooted in Christian principles, it warmly embraces individuals of all backgrounds. Established in 2019 as a community-owned venture, the farm not only sells organic produce but also serves as a hub for farmers’ markets and training sessions in traditional farming methods. Embracing a mission of inclusivity, Jubilee Farm extends its outreach to marginalized communities, including refugees and individuals with additional needs.
Recognizing the axiom that we protect what we cherish and cherish what we understand, Jubilee Farm hosts science-oriented events like bioblitzes, alongside endeavors to foster connections through the arts. My invitation to conduct a workshop on birds and poetry here reflects this holistic approach.
Emerging from indoor activities into the sunlight is invigorating. Along the way, Matt pauses to guide an escaped hen back into the open-air chicken run. We traverse the grass-covered mounds of ancient "lazy beds," encountering a pregnant ewe, her demeanor a testament to the nurturing care she's received. Our journey leads us to a bubbling stream, where we search for the elusive dipper. Matt muses about the potential for a bird hide and meditation space in this serene meadow, met with nods of approval. Once believed to convey divine messages, today, the art of ornithomancy seems insufficient in the face of our ecological challenges.
In this moment, a verse echoes in my mind—a reminder of how a small seed can burgeon into a tree, offering sanctuary to birds and prompting reflection on our collective impact on the natural world.
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