Sussex County Land Trust to Dedicate New Chase Oaks Preserve in Lewes

Chase Oaks lands 2

LEWES – The Sussex County Land Trust (SCLT) has announced the official dedication of its newest conservation property, Chase Oaks Preserve, taking place on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The ceremony will be held on-site at the preserve, with parking available across the street at the DRB Homes model home, located at 30019 Chase Oaks Drive, Lewes, DE.

A Crucial New Addition to Sussex County’s Open Space Network

Chase Oaks Preserve spans 32 acres along Robinsonville Road, a fast-developing corridor in Sussex County. The property was generously donated by Chase Oaks DE, LLC, with the support of DRB Homes, and will now be permanently preserved as open space and wildlife habitat under the care of the Land Trust.

This significant acquisition includes approximately 2,570 feet of road frontage, featuring 25 acres of mature hardwood forest and 7 acres of cleared land. Its preservation provides not only ecological benefits, such as habitat protection and environmental sustainability, but also maintains a scenic buffer in an area experiencing rapid residential growth.

“We are incredibly grateful to Chase Oaks DE, LLC and DRB Homes for this generous donation,” said Sara Bluhm, Executive Director of SCLT. “Public and private partnerships like this make our mission possible. Chase Oaks Preserve is a wonderful example of how thoughtful development and land preservation can coexist, leaving a lasting impact on Sussex County.”

Innovative Partnership for Sustainable Development

In a continued commitment to long-term conservation, DRB Homes has entered into a developer agreement with SCLT. Through this agreement, $500 from every home sold in the Chase Oaks community after July 1, 2025, will be donated to the Land Trust. This model ensures that both builders and homeowners are contributing directly to local land preservation efforts.

This partnership is part of a broader strategy by SCLT to collaborate with developers across the region. Similar agreements are already in place with K. Hovnanian at Tower Hill in Lewes, The Peninsula in Millsboro, and previous contributors like Schell Brothers. These collaborations underscore the potential for responsible growth that supports conservation goals.

Dedication Ceremony Details

The dedication event will feature remarks from representatives of Sussex County Land Trust, Chase Oaks DE, LLC, and DRB Homes, followed by a small reception hosted at the DRB Homes model home.

To learn more about the Trust’s work or to get involved, visit sussexcountylandtrust.org.