Sussex County Land Trust Celebrates 25 Years, Raises Nearly $20K

More than 80 people attended the Sussex County Land Trust’s 25th anniversary event, raising over $19,500 for conservation efforts. (Photo courtesy of Sussex Land Trust.)

More than 80 residents, partners, and supporters gathered Nov. 13 at the Delaware Botanic Gardens to kick off the Sussex County Land Trust’s 25th anniversary celebration. The event, 25 Years of Preserving Sussex: Celebrating Our Roots, Growing Our Future, raised more than $19,500 to support future conservation projects and expand public access to open space.

Event Highlights and Announcements

The evening featured remarks from Board Secretary Casey Kenton, Executive Director Sara M. Bluhm, and Trustee and Fundraising Committee Chair Hal Carmean. Attendees also enjoyed local food from SoDel Concepts and live music by Little Hustle.

The Trust announced two major initiatives during the program: the launch of a new Preservation Fund—an effort described as an opportunity to “raise a hand for the land”—and the organization’s first-ever multi-year strategic plan outlining priorities for land acquisition, stewardship, and community engagement.

A representative from Gov. Matt Meyer’s office presented an official proclamation recognizing the organization’s 25 years of preservation work and highlighting the partnerships that have contributed to its success.

“This event celebrated not only our past accomplishments, but the partnerships that make preservation possible,” said Bluhm. “Together, we’re building on 25 years of momentum to ensure Sussex County’s most special places remain protected and accessible for generations to come.”

Delaware Botanic Gardens Hosts the Celebration

The celebration was held at the Delaware Botanic Gardens, which sits on land owned by the Sussex County Land Trust and leased to the Gardens for public use and ecological education. Bluhm also offered thanks to the DBG team for hosting the event and supporting its success.

Sponsors and Preservation Impact

Sponsors for the evening included Dogfish Head, Community Bank Delaware, Sussex County Council, and Sheryl Sewd and Ray Sander.

Since its founding in 2001, the Sussex County Land Trust has preserved more than 6,400 acres of open space in partnership with county, state, and nonprofit organizations. Its work focuses on protecting farmland, forests, and waterways and expanding public access to parks and trails.

Upcoming Events Through 2026

The Trust plans to continue its anniversary celebration into 2026 with a series of community events, including an Easter Egg Hunt at Wolfe House on March 22, Illuminate Sussex: A Separation Day Celebration at Ickford Park on June 13, its annual meeting on June 26, Dogfish Dash on Sept. 27, and Open Space, Open Strings in November.

More information about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and the Preservation Fund is available at sclandtrust.org.