MIDDLEBURG, Va., May 31, 2023 – Land Trust of Virginia (LTV) is pleased to announce a conservation easement in The Plains thanks to the generosity of landowners, Mark and Melissa Winchester. “Far Hill” is an 18.83-acre property in a highly conserved area of Fauquier County. Within one mile of the property are 16 open space easements held by LTV, VOF, and PEC, including one adjacent VOF easement that surrounds the property.
"We were so happy to have the opportunity to place beautiful Far Hill into a conservation easement that would protect it in perpetuity,” said Mark and Melissa. "While not a large property, the natural attributes, historic charm, and graceful, quiet setting all contribute to the character of the surrounding area, and we wanted to be sure this would remain the case for generations to come. We knew LTV was the perfect home for this easement as they recognize the importance of individual properties and their contributing factors to our larger community, regardless of size. We rest easier knowing this property will not be threatened by division, destruction, or inappropriate change, and future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy it as we have."
Located within the Little River Historic District, Far Hill features seven structures that are considered contributing resources. Listed on both the Virginia Landmarks Register and National Register of Historic Places, this District encompasses over 23,000 acres in the horse and hunt countryside of northeastern Fauquier County. With approximately 0.28 miles of frontage along Logans Mill Road, this property protects scenic open space, historic resources, and the majority of the property contains “Prime Farmland Soils” or “Farmland Soils of Statewide Importance”.
“While not large in size, the Far Hill property has been a priority to protect for a long time due to its proximity to so much conserved land,” said LTV Executive Director, Ashton Cole. “We were honored to work with the Winchesters to help them ensure the future of this stunning part of Fauquier County.”
The Far Hill easement is the 241st easement completed by the Land Trust of Virginia. For more information about their work, please visit http://www.landtrustva.org.