Sussex County Acquires 165 Acres in partnership with Sussex County Land Trust

The Sussex County Land Trust has achieved another milestone in its continued efforts to identify and facilitate the acquisition of properties for open space preservation through strategic partnerships.

On Tuesday October 1st, Sussex County officials announced the purchase of a 165-acre tract dubbed the ‘Layfield property’, located on Dagsboro Road (Rt. 20) just north and contiguous to the town limits of Dagsboro. The acquisition of the property was funded through the County’s Land Conservation program based on a recommendation by the Sussex County Land Trust.

“This is a meaningful investment in Sussex County’s future by protecting a piece of its natural and agricultural past, said County Councilman Doug Hudson, whose district includes the parcel.

The partnership between the County and the Trust dates back more than two decades and has led to the acquisition of numerous properties in Sussex County featuring public access such as the Delaware Botanic Gardens (Dagsboro), Stephen P. Hudson Park (Milton), Nanticoke Crossing (Woodland), Hopkins Preserve (Lewes) and the Forest of the Broadkill (Milton).

The ‘Layfield Property’ was identified by the Trust earlier this year as a potential acquisition for open space protection, and the recommendation for purchase was made to County officials. The property, owned by local businessmen Rupert Smith and the late Kenneth Simpler, was originally slated for high density development. A lifelong outdoorsman and philanthropist, Mr. Simpler’s keen interest in preserving the property for the benefit of future generations was a driving force in the acquisition. The final purchase price of $2,650,000 was made possible by a $550,000 donation via reduction in appraised value by the owners.

“We are proud to continue our relationship with Sussex County Council to help preserve this property for all Sussex County residents to enjoy,” said Sussex County Land Trust Chaiman Ring Lardner.

The Trust will manage the property on behalf of the Sussex County Conservation Program and will begin to develop a future masterplan concept for the property and will explore potential reforestation efforts. The property will continue to remain in agricultural production for the foreseeable future. For additional information, visit www.sclandtrust.org.