Sussex County voted to preserve lands known as the Layfield Property near Dagsboro (Photo courtesy of Sussex County)
Sussex County Council recently approved the purchase of 165-acres of forested land known as the Layfield Property, located just off of Route 20 in Dagsboro. The county agreed to pay $2.65 million for the parcel from Riverview Associates III LLC at a price reduction of just over $500,000.
“Council purchased the property with the intent of keeping it in its natural state, with an effort to preserve the landscape and ensure that Sussex County retains its rural character,” County Administrator Todd Lawson said. “There are no long term plans for the land but the county will work with Sussex County Land Trust to develop a future master plan. Until that is in place, the property will continue to be used for agricultural production, although some wooded areas may be augmented in the future to promote forestation efforts.”
The land was purchased through realty transfer tax revenue.
“This is a meaningful investment in Sussex County’s future by protecting a piece of its natural and agricultural past,” Councilman Doug Hudson whose district includes the parcel. “Constituents repeatedly tell us how much they want to see green and open spaces protected. This purchase certainly helps to satisfy that public priority now, but more importantly, it will ensure we have something for our children and grandchildren.”
County Council also entered into an agreement with Sussex County Land Trust to protect a parcel near Milton
This purchase was not the only conservation decision made at the October 1 meeting. Council also approved an agreement with Sussex County Land Trust that would protect lands known as the Forest of the Broadkill Preserve near Milton.
“This property was purchased by council in April 2023 for $1.8 million,” Lawson said. “The purchase combines two neighboring properties to conserve a very large tract of land with unique natural characteristics.”
The agreement stipulates a Deed of Easement will be recorded in favor of the conservation agency to develop and maintain the property. The goal is to install an entrance road, parking lot, utilities, trails, informational displays, landscape and habitat improvement as well as other amenities designed to keep the area as green space.
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