Douglas Simpson of Bridgeville is 2018 Tree Farmer of the Year

Douglas R. Simpson of Bridgeville is Delaware’s 2018 Tree Farmer of the Year. He was chosen for his longtime dedication to forest conservation and landowner education. Presented by the Delaware Tree Farm Committee, the award recognizes landowners who practice exceptional management and promote sustainable forestry.

Simpson is a Delaware native who owns tree farms on approximately 700 acres, in Sussex County, which were first certified in 1995. The award was given at the annual meeting and banquet of the Delaware Forestry Association, held March 22 at Bridgeville Fire Hall.

Using comprehensive stewardship plans developed in partnership with the Delaware Forest Service, Simpson manages his forestland for natural beauty, wildlife habitat, water quality and wood products.

In 2009, three of his properties totaling 350 acres were selected in the initial round of conservation easements purchased in Delaware AgLands Foundation’s landmark Forestland Preservation Program. These tree farms are now permanently protected from development.

In 2017, he exemplified his commitment to forest management education on the Delmarva Peninsula by hosting the 20-state Northeastern Area Association of State Foresters’ Cooperative Forest Management Committee at his state-of-the-art custom sawmill.