On a perfect late-summer evening, some 350 members of the Northern Neck Land Conservancy, their families and friends, gathered on the lawns around Juggs farm at Sabine Hall to celebrate the year’s achievements. As the sun set beyond the Rappahannock River, guests enjoyed a barbeque dinner provided by Smokin’ Joes of Kilmarnock and mingled with  fellow attendees drawn from the five counties of the Northern Neck, Fredericksburg, Richmond and beyond.  

In the course of the evening, Carter Wellford and Mercer O’Hara welcomed visitors.  In a brief address, Wellford pointed out that the land around them had been held in a conservation easement for over 25 years, and he urged others to consider this path to ensure the preservation of our rural landscape.  Mary Louisa Pollard, President of the NNLC, gave an overview of the work of the organization and cited two examples of  lands recently protected by conservation agreements and now included in the 2,100 acres secured from uncontrolled  development by formal easements. 

She also thanked donors for the generous prizes they had contributed and the many volunteers whose work had made the evening’s event possible.  In conclusion, Dr Dean McBride offered a blessing on the gathering, the work of the NNLC and the awaiting meal.  

Two new features were included this year.  Ten local organizations committed to maintaining and preserving the environment set up information booths, with representatives on hand to chat with interested visitors.  Guests could study plans for the proposed Farming Museum of the Northern Neck, look at samples of antique farm instruments, and learn more about this initiative.