The Layfield property consists of 165 acres located adjacent to the Town limits of Dagsboro, just east of Rt. 113 along Rt. 20 (Dagsboro Road).  The property was acquired in partnership with Sussex County in September 2024 and was funded though the County’s land conservation program based on a recommendation from the Trust.  The property was originally slated for high density development and was owned by two local businessmen, Rupert Smith and the late Kenneth Simpler who cooperated in a discounted bargain sale.  The land was purchased by Sussex County in late September for $2,650,000, roughly $500,000 below appraised value.  The Trust will manage the property on behalf of the County and will begin to develop a future masterplan concept for the property which include reforestation efforts but the majority of the property will remain in agricultural production for the foreseeable future.