We are so grateful to all of you who have been following our progress and cheering us on! Grateful, too, for the March 13 Beaufort County Community Services and Land Use Committee's decision to proceed with due diligence on the purchase of this property for use as a passive (low-impact) park. This a huge step toward the preservation of this historic property and the 2013 heritage live oak, the oldest identified tree in Beaufort County.

When Beaufort County considers such a purchase, they look to collaborate with the Open Land Trust, the town that it is located in, and community partners (that would be us). As Community Partners, we are tasked with the tangible demonstration of the commitment of volunteer and financial resources dedicated to partnership with the Beaufort County Passive Parks system in order to provide for the ongoing care of this tree and the gorgeous property it sits on. We are optimistic that we will fulfill those tasks enthusiastically.

The good news is, the park will shelter the 2013 Heritage Oak as well as over 30 specimen and landmark trees. This historically and environmentally significant green space will provide many invaluable benefits to our environment, a habitat for wildlife, and the opportunity for visitors to experience the respite and reverence found in the enjoyment of nature.

The challenging news is that we must act now in a meaningful way. Just like the many "Friends Of" groups dedicated to notable parks in our community, we now are called to create a "Friend of Cherry Hill Park" nonprofit organization.  (Cherry Hill Park is the working name for the property under consideration). We will soon be launching a website with more information and opportunities to participate in our efforts. Thank you so much for your ongoing interest and support.