Tennessee Family's Forest Legacy Secured Forever

An 852-acre family estate in Maury County, Tennessee, has been permanently placed under conservation. The property, known as the Sugg Property, was transferred to The Land Trust for Tennessee after the passing of siblings Mary Ann and John Sugg. This unconditional gift permanently protects the landscape of pine forests, native woodlands, and open pastures from commercial development.

The Sugg siblings began their conservation efforts in 1990 by enrolling parts of their father's former dairy farm into the federal Conservation Reserve Program. They planted 240 acres with loblolly pine trees, which grew into significant forests that reduced soil erosion and created wildlife habitats. This reforestation was the first step in their comprehensive plan to safeguard the entire 852-acre property.

Further solidifying their commitment, the Suggs donated voluntary conservation easements in 2001 and 2007, limiting development. In 2018, following their deaths, the entire estate was gifted to The Land Trust for Tennessee, allowing the organization to manage it directly as a conservation site and continue the environmental work. The Land Trust has re-enrolled acreage in the Conservation Reserve Program through 2031.

The permanent protection of the Sugg Property is a significant conservation achievement for Maury County. The land trust employs modern forestry practices, including prescribed burns, to maintain the health of the forests. This legacy not only protects regional watersheds and air quality but also serves as an example for other landowners wishing to preserve farmland as natural areas.