Since that time, the motorbike tracks which scarred the site were re-profiled and have now vegetated over. Initial surveys revealed the grassland on this south-facing slope to contain a rich diversity of chalk downland flowers. Consequently, Jumping Downs was entered into a Countryside Stewardship Agreement (through DEFRA) to ensure sensitive cattle grazing, mend fencing, improve access and signage and to encourage educational visits over the next ten years. In June 2003 the site was officially launched as a new Local Nature Reserve and work continues to organise events, surveys and children's activities with the help of a Wildspace! grant administered by English Nature through the New Opportunities Fund and a dedicated Greenspace Officer at KSCP.

Wildlife Surveys have been held this year for reptiles and small mammals. Of note there was adder, as well as viviparous lizard and slow worm. The mammal survey showed that wood mice live at Jumping Downs and pygmy shrew were found at some of the reptile survey sites!

Jumping Downs is a very peaceful site much visited by birds; a kestrel can often be seen riding the thermals, a hobby has been spotted several times, and sparrowhawks use the adjacent Covert Wood. Winter brings redwings and field fares as well as chaffinches, goldfinches and long-tailed tits.

However, it is the wildflowers that make this site so special, and a visit during the summer months is a must.Plants of note include bee orchid, pyramidal orchid and horseshoe vetch.

Make Jumping Downs a place to visit as part of a longer walk in the Kent Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Elham Valley Way passes through the edge of the site and there are lovely walks through Covert Wood.

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Leaflet about Jumping Downs