Northam signs easement to protect Malvern Hill
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Henrico's Malvern Hill Farm is permanently – and officially – safe.
The 486-acre farm with a historic past was protected permanently from future development May 15 when Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam signed a Department of Historic Resources easement.
Nearly 100 friends and supporters joined CRLC Board of Directors, members and staff to welcome Northam and administration officials for the official signing of two easements that will protect much of the farm.
The ceremony took place at the Richmond National Battlefield Park - Malvern Hill unit adjacent to Malvern Hill Farm. In addition to Northam, speakers included CRLC Board President Brian Watson, Director and State Historic Preservation Officer Julie Langan of the Department of Historic Resources, Director of the Department of Conservation and Recreation Clyde Christman, Varina District Supervisor Tyrone Nelson and Secretary of Natural Resources Matt Strickler. Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Bettina Ward also attended.
The DHR easement is the first step toward Malvern Hill Farm's future since CRLC closed the sale in February. Additional protection plans include a second easement to be be held by the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. Final ownership of the nearly 900-acre property will rest with Henrico County and with the National Park Service, as well as the James River Association, which will provide a publicly accessible canoe and kayak launch at Turkey Island Creek across Route 5 from the farm.
