Our History

Founded in 2001, the Sussex County Land Trust (SCLT) was created to protect the natural, cultural, agricultural, and recreational resources that define Sussex County’s character. What began as a grassroots partnership between the public and private sectors has grown into a countywide conservation leader with over 6,400 acres preserved through collaboration, community support, and strategic investment.

From early agricultural easements and landmark projects like the Wolfe House and Cannon–Maston restorations, to signature conservation achievements such as the Forest of the Broadkill Preserve, Hopkins Preserve, Nanticoke Crossing Park, and the Delaware Botanic Gardens, SCLT’s work has continually evolved to meet the needs of a growing county while safeguarding its open spaces.

Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Trust is entering a new era—guided by its first full-time Executive Director and the launch of its inaugural strategic plan—focused on creating a connected system of parks and preserves that balance recreation, education, and ecological stewardship for generations to come.

Chronological History of Acquisitions, Easements & Major Events

Founding & Early Momentum

(2001–2005)

  • 2001: SCLT founded to protect open space, farmland, and natural resources in Sussex County.
  • 2002–2005: Leveraged over $3 million in matching grants, preserving 2,000+ acres.
  • 2003: Partnership with The Nature Conservancy secures Oyster Rocks (43 acres) and Bayside Wetlands (280 acres).
  • 2004: Sussex County Council proclaims Land Preservation Month.
  • 2004–2005: Launch of the Race for Open Space 5K and Land Trust Ball — raising funds for Wolfe House renovations.
  • 2004: Partnership secures Ponder Tract (908 acres) and Peninsula Easements (230 acres).

Major Acquisitions & Heritage Preservation

(2006–2009)

  • 2005: Cannon Tract (37 acres) acquired along Pepper Creek for $1.3M using Sussex County Council open space funds. This property later became home to the Delaware Botanic Gardens.
  • 2006: Tunnell Tract (755 acres) preserved with State, County, and The Conservation Fund.
  • 2007: Burton Tract (150 acres) acquired with The Nature Conservancy.
  • 2008: Cannon–Maston Property — 59 acres and an original 1727 brick home preserved near Seaford.
  • 2009: Middleford North Preserve secured in the Nanticoke Watershed.
SCLT Anniversary Logo final RGB

Planning & Progress

(2010–2017)

  • Focused efforts on identifying lands adjacent to the Georgetown–Lewes Trail for future acquisition and trail connections.
  • Continued restoration of the Wolfe House, preserving a key piece of Sussex County’s cultural heritage.
  • 2015–2016: Delaware Botanic Gardens Established — SCLT leases the Cannon Tract (37 acres) for $1/year for 99 years; groundbreaking held in December 2016.
  • Strengthened partnerships with state, county, and nonprofit organizations to prepare for the next phase of open space preservation and public recreation.

Renewal & Expansion

(2018–2021)

  • 2018: Stephen P. Hudson Park (30 acres) acquired along Georgetown-Lewes Trail.
  • 2021: Nanticoke Crossing Park (41 acres) preserved in partnership with Chesapeake Conservancy and Mt. Cuba Center, protecting shoreline and forested habitat west of Seaford.

Trail & Preserve Growth

(2022–2024)

  • Oct. 2022: Hopkins Preserve (50 acres) secured near Georgetown-Lewes Trail for hiking and biking.
  • Dec. 2022: Gills Neck Trail Segment (2 acres) donated by Jack Lingo Asset Management.
  • May 2023: Forest of the Broadkill Preserve (294 acres) acquired near Milton for public trails and recreation.
  • Aug. 2024: Layfield Property (165 acres) preserved near Dagsboro — to be named Pepper Fork Preserve, with a masterplan and reforestation efforts underway.

A New Era of Leadership

(2025–Future)

  • Jan 2025: First Full-Time Executive Director Hired — Sara M. Bluhm.
  • Sept. 2025: Chase Oaks Preserve Dedicated (32 acres) — a new public preserve expanding access to open space in Sussex County.
  • Oct. 2025: Milton Crossing parcel donated (2 acres) — strengthens conservation corridor along Route 1.
  • Late 2025: First Multi-Year Strategic Plan Initiated — establishes long-term goals to guide land conservation, community partnerships, and sustainable growth.