The Higgins Conservation Easement

Kent County Conservancy protects land through strategic acquisitions and conservation easements with the help of both private and public actions. The Conservancy has held a Conservation Easement on 9.8-acres of forested wetland in western Kent County since our inception. This protected property has historically been in agricultural production dating back to at least 1937, when aerial photography shows that it was comprised of mature wooded wetlands/uplands. Land use surrounding the protected property is a mix of open space, agricultural, and residential uses.

The native forests consist of wetland hardwoods including Oak, Gum, Red Maple and scattered Pine species. This mixed forest is typically found on upland flats and in depressions which are very poorly drained.  The Easement area does have vernal pools during spring and late fall even though there is tax ditch along the eastern boundary side of the easement. Due to the habitat, protectionresulting from the forest preservation, the area has turkeys, deer, chipmunks, and even flying squirrels with an abundance of native birds.

The Higgins' (pictured to the left above), who own the surrounding property, may allow, with permission, limited hiking, wildlife observation, photography, and nature study, consistent with maintaining the character of this Conservation Easement. The Conservancy is very fortunate to have this Conservation Easement so early our existence primary due to the enlighten forethought of Dr. Terry and Martha Higgins, as Easement grantors and, as well as, founding members of the Conservancy.