Seaford, DE — The Nanticoke Watershed Alliance (NWA), Chesapeake Conservancy and the City of Seaford are thrilled to announce the opening of NWA’s new office in downtown Seaford, as well as land preserved for the future expansion of the Oyster House Park and critical infrastructure repair along the Nanticoke River. All three organizations pooled resources in this strategic collaboration to create a win-win-win for the Nanticoke River.

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NWA, with a growing staff, reached out to the City of Seaford for potential office sites. Meanwhile, the City of Seaford and Chesapeake Conservancy had expanded the River Walk, stabilized the eroding shoreline and added fishing nooks, docks and a canoe/kayak launch for the community at Oyster House Park.

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However, plans to expand the River Walk, construct a natural green amphitheater and other amenities were put on hold until necessary sewer improvements could be made under these areas. To make the sewer upgrade as cost-effective as possible, the property adjacent to the park was identified as an ideal solution.
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The property was recently listed for sale. After countless phone calls, emails and meetings, NWA, Chesapeake Conservancy and the City of Seaford, were each able to contribute approximately a third of the property's cost, along with support from the Longwood Foundation. Native Seafordian and former board chair of the Chesapeake Conservancy, Randall Larrimore, worked with the Seiler Family Trust and the property owners, to work out the details so that the property could be purchased and the park expanded.

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The waterfront portion of the property will be retained and owned by the City of Seaford and used for the future sewer improvements, as well as an added amenity to the Oyster House Park. The upland portion where the house sits has become the offices for the NWA. Lisa Wool, executive director, states, “We are thrilled that we can continue our work protecting and enhancing the Nanticoke River while enjoying first-hand the view of the river from our new offices. Over the past few years, we have worked with the city to secure over $500,000 in funding to implement green infrastructure projects. We look forward to contributing more as a member of the community.”

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“I’ve loved the Nanticoke River for as long as I can remember. Growing up just a few blocks from here, fishing with friends and watching life in Seaford revolve around the water were key parts of my childhood,” said Chesapeake Conservancy Board Director and Chair Emeritus Randall Larrimore. Mr. Larrimore personally funded a restricted trust at the Chesapeake Conservancy so funds would be available to help fulfill his dream for the Oyster House Park. “This project represents the very best of our community: partnership, vision and a deep respect for the river. I’m proud that the Nanticoke Watershed Alliance, the Chesapeake Conservancy and the City of Seaford partnered to create a permanent home for vital conservation work and expand the Oyster House Park. This will allow future generations to experience and cherish the Nanticoke just as I have.”

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Once the sewer upgrades are made, additional amenities will be constructed to enhance Oyster House Park. Projects like this help Seaford maintain their vital infrastructure, improve community amenities, and reduce expenses for local taxpayers. City Manager Charles Anderson shared, “This property purchase is a testament to the commitment the Mayor and City Council are making to preserving the Nanticoke River for future generations. We cannot thank Mr. Larrimore and Executive Director Lisa Wool enough for their investment in the City of Seaford. Their partnership and shared vision help ensure that Seaford continues to grow responsibly while protecting the natural resources that make our community such a special place to live, work and visit.”

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