Sussex County Land Trust Celebrates 25 Years of Conservation at Annual Meeting

By sarabluhm | June 4, 2026

DAGSBORO, Del. — The Sussex County Land Trust (SCLT) will celebrate 25 years of conservation success during its Annual Meeting on Friday, June 26, at the Delaware Botanic Gardens (30220 Piney Neck Rd, Dagsboro, DE 19939), highlighting a landmark year that included the preservation of the 88-acre Ard na Gréine property near Lewes and the continued expansion of parks, trails, and public access opportunities across Sussex County.

The public is invited to attend the event, which will feature a presentation on the organization’s accomplishments, future priorities, and vision for protecting the land and resources that make Sussex County special.

The meeting comes at a time of significant growth for the Land Trust. Over the past year, SCLT completed the acquisition of Ard na Gréine—one of the most significant remaining undeveloped tracts east of Route 1 in the Lewes area—while advancing restoration efforts at Ickford Park in Seaford, expanding stewardship initiatives across nearly 1,400 acres of protected lands, and adopting a new strategic plan to guide the organization through 2030.

Attendees will hear updates on:

  • The preservation of Ard na Gréine and future planning for the property
  • Restoration and interpretation efforts at Ickford Park, including the historic Cannon-Maston House
  • New recreational and conservation projects at Hudson Park, Forest of the Broadkill, Hopkins Preserve, and Nanticoke Crossing Park
  • The Land Trust’s recently adopted strategic plan and vision for the future
  • Organizational growth, including the addition of its first full-time Stewardship Manager

“Twenty-five years ago, community leaders recognized that Sussex County’s special places needed champions,” said Sara Bluhm, Executive Director of the Sussex County Land Trust. “Today, we are managing nearly 1,400 acres of protected lands and helping shape a future where conservation, recreation, agriculture, and historic preservation can thrive together. This Annual Meeting is an opportunity to celebrate what we’ve accomplished and share what’s next.”

Schedule of Events

  • 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Annual Meeting and Closed Board of Trustees Session
  • 12:30 p.m.: Doors Open to the Public; Light Refreshments Served
  • 1:00 p.m.: Public Presentation and Organizational Updates

During the Annual Meeting, Trustees will elect officers, adopt the FY27 budget, and receive updates on several major conservation, stewardship, and park improvement initiatives planned throughout Sussex County.

The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged.

To RSVP, visit https://bit.ly/2026scltmtg

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