Delaware Nature Society Program Guide and Newsletter Summer 2019 | Page 3

Ken Simpler’s Turkey Run Farm is one of 23 properties that are permanently protected by conservation easements held by Delaware Nature Society. Derek Stoner The Simpler Life By Kirsten Werner D riving down the lane at Turkey Run Farm is like traveling back in time. Perched at the top of a steeply sloped stream valley, the circa 1825 stone farmhouse enjoys views across meadows, a placid pond, and the forest beyond. “It’s a compelling vista,” says owner Ken Simpler, who purchased the 29-acre proper- ty in 2004 and lives there with his wife and three children. “I can’t help but think of the settlers when they first arrived at this spot.” Ken has worked tirelessly over the past 15 years to restore what he calls the “cultural footprint” of Turkey Run Farm – so named for the small tributary to White Clay Creek that runs through the property. Once part of a thriving 100-acre farm and nursery owned by the Frederick family (who also donated the land for Delaware Nature Society’s Coverdale Farm Preserve), the property had fallen into disrepair. In addition to restoring the farmhouse and bank barn, the Simpler’s stewarded the land, too, removing inva- sive plants like autumn olive and multiflora rose, and planting the long-fallow fields with native grasses. Turkey Run Farm is one of 23 such properties that are permanently protected by conservation easements held by Delaware Nature Soci- ety. All told, they total 550 acres of protected land across the region. If growth trends continue, experts project Delaware will have one million residents by 2021. As development pressures increase, properties like Turkey Run Farm become all the more critical for the ecological services they provide – including cleaning our air and water, reducing flooding, and storing carbon – as well as their contribution to a pastoral and scenic “sense of place.” Ken says that he and his family saw it as an asset that a conservation easement was in place when they purchased the property. “It’s a privilege to own this place, but it’s a responsibility, too. I hope that when I’m long gone this farm remains as it is…as it was meant to be.” Kirsten Werner is Senior Director of Communications for Natural Lands Trust Wild Geranium at Turkey Run Derek Stoner Save Disappearing Natural Lands It is estimated that Delaware has already lost over 50% of its wetlands and over 60% of its forested lands. It’s only when we no longer have clean water, natural places to recreate in, or wildlife to view and enjoy that we truly ap- preciate their value. Delaware Nature Society works to preserve and protect these natural values – the water that we drink, the air that we breathe, the lands where our food comes from, the beautiful natural areas that we enjoy. Our science-driven approach to conservation blends land protection and management, stewardship, and advocacy into a holistic framework strongly rooted in educating and engaging children, adults, and decision-makers in proactively conserving our natural resources. Placing a conservation easement on your land is one of the most personal ways to protect land. Each easement is unique in the manner the land is protected and reflects each fami- ly’s personal story and wishes for the future. Join the fellowship of conservation and learn how to place an easement on your property. Contact Ginger North, Director of Conservation, at 302-239-2334 ext. 100 or [email protected] to learn more. 3