Preservation projects will benefit current, future residents
A recent letter suggested some confusion regarding the Greater Lewes Foundation’s Open Space Alliance between GLF and Sussex County Land Trust to preserve two local properties – the Fourth Street and Ard na Gréine preserves – totaling 120 acres.
Both are owned by families with deep roots in the community who are passionate that their long-held family land be permanently protected as open space. In fact, both families accepted purchase prices significantly below development value to help facilitate our fundraising efforts. Their goal, as ours, is to ensure these properties become community assets that will benefit current and future residents of the greater Lewes area.
Permanent protection of both properties will be ensured through conservation easements to be held by the Sussex County Land Trust and other conservation entities. Under these legal arrangements, public access is envisioned solely through walking trails. Habitat restoration, including reforestation, is anticipated with a goal of enhancing the diversity of both flora and fauna. Future opportunities for environmental education are a possibility at Ard na Gréine Preserve.
We share the heartfelt concern of many in our community about the disappearance of properties such as these. We invite all to join us in contributing to successful acquisition and protection of the Fourth Street and Ard na Gréine preserves. Together we can make this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity a reality.
The Greater Lewes Foundation and the Sussex County Land Trust are working together to raise the necessary $18.3 million by Dec. 31, 2024. Please join us at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 24, at the Lewes library to learn more about how you can help and become part of Lewes history in the making.
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