Easement Profile

A Conservation Easement with Patriotic Flair
In 1999, the Brandywine Conservancy accepted an important conservation easement from General William W. Spruance (Ret., Air Force) covering his 23-acre property in New Castle County, Delaware. The property, currently owned and occupied by the General's son, Tom Spruance, is situated along Kennett Pike (Route 52) and its preservation contributes to a multi-organizational effort to protect the natural and historical resources of the Kennett Pike corridor.

Known as "The Patch", the property hosts mature forested steep slopes that are an extension of the state-designated Selborne-Flint Woods Natural Area. Large chestnut and black, white and red oak trees tower over a tributary to Cossart Run which flows into the Brandywine River. The easement limits woodland cutting and allows only one additional residence to be constructed.

General Spruance clearly recognizes the importance of protecting sensitive natural resources. Equally important is his desire to protect the property's historic character. After all, his grandchildren, Chelsea and Preston, who now live with their parents on the property are the fourth generation of the Spruance family to call The Patch their home. We salute General Spruance for his commitment to conservation, and we are proud to be entrusted with the important responsibility of protecting the property for generations to come.

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