Sussex County Land Trust

???? Last week we hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at Nanticoke Crossing Park, a 41-acre property overlooking the beautiful Nanticoke River near Seaford. The property was acquired in partnership with Chesapeake Conservancy, Sussex County, Del., government, the US Navy, Mt. Cuba Center, Delaware DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, and Delaware Open Space Council for the purpose of protecting the property from development and offering public recreation. ????

???? The Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek held a ground breaking ceremony for a new building this past Thursday, attended by partners and stakeholders. The Trust’s partnership with the gardens dates back nearly two decades when the land owned by the Trust was leased to the gardens for $1 per year for a 99 year lease term. Through perseverance, fundraising and vision, the board members of the gardens have created an amazing amenity for Delaware and continue to improve the property. The Trust is proud of our partnership with this amazing group. If you haven’t visited the gardens, fall is a great time to do so! ????

??♀? Join the 2024 Dogfish Dash and Support Sussex County Land Trust! Are you ready for a great run and an even greater cause? The Dash is just around the corner, and we want YOU to lace up your running shoes for a fun-filled race! All proceeds from this year's event will go directly to support the Sussex County Land Trust, helping us preserve the open spaces and natural beauty that make our county so special. ?? Why Participate? By registering for the Dogfish Dash, you're doing more than just taking part in an exciting race — you're contributing to the conservation and protection of Sussex County’s beautiful landscapes. Every dollar raised helps maintain the trails, parks, and wildlife habitats that we all enjoy. ?? How to Register: Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this incredible event! Spots are filling up quickly, so be sure to secure your place today. Register now: https://lnkd.in/eJgki3Cq Let’s run for a cause and keep Sussex County green and beautiful for future generations. Dogfish Head

???? Wanna help the Trust by enjoying great food and libations? THIS Wednesday 9/4, we have partnered with our friends from Dogfish Head for their Beer & Benevolence Appreciation night at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in downtown Rehoboth from 4-9 PM where 10% of the evening's proceeds will be donated to the Trust! Please come join us for dinner and a beer! Cheers! ????

We're one month away from the Dogfish Dash! This off-centered road race starts and ends at the Dogfish Head Milton Brewery, followed by a post-run party with live music, fun activities, and of course ... BEER! Dashers will receive two beverage tickets (21+ only) and some tasty post-run grub. All proceeds from this year's Dash on Sunday, Sept. 29 go to protecting and preserving nature by benefiting the Sussex County Land Trust. Head to dogfish.com/dash for full details and registration! ??: Dogfish Head ??

“The Sussex County Land Trust is proud of our ongoing partnership with Dogfish Head and for this year’s dash in support of our ongoing efforts to protect resources through land preservation, stewardship, and education,” said Ring Lardner, SCLT board chair. https://lnkd.in/epvVr43v

???? Today was a moment in history! We held a groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration of the Cannon-Maston House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Sussex County. The 1727 structure and the surrounding 59 acre were acquired by the Trust in partnership with Sussex County, Del., government. Today marked the commencement of the restoration of the historic structure. We are proud to protect and preserve our rich history! ????

????This map was recently developed by the Trust as a guide for land preservation initiatives. The properties identified in yellow have been preserved by the Trust. The 2018 Sussex County Comprehensive Land Use Plan confirmed there were 95,000 acres (16%) in the County that had been developed, 227,000 acres (40%) protected from development and 256,000 acres (44%) that were either undeveloped or in farmland production. We still have plenty of work to do and will continue our mission of preserving land in Sussex County! Check us out at https://lnkd.in/eGVu9-e ????

We hosted our monthly board meeting today at the recently renovated Williams Litchford farmhouse located on Atlanta Road, northwest of Seaford. The century old home is situated on a 59 acre Trust owned property known as Ickford Park, also home to one of the oldest standing structures in Sussex County, the Cannon-Maston House, circa 1727.

Yesterday was #BenevolenceDay and our friends from our favorite Dogfish Head volunteered their time and resources joining our team clearing trails and improving our newest property, the Forest of the Broadkill, a +/- 300 acre site southwest of Milton which will offer public access. The property was acquired last year in partnership with Sussex County, Del., government. https://lnkd.in/eKFrGsc2