The Black Forest Wildlife Preserve in Sussex County is a sanctuary where nature thrives and the community actively protects it. From preserving vital habitats to youth-led initiatives like Sussex Teens Are Responsible Stewards (STARS), Ben Parsons and local volunteers are inspiring conservation, education, and stewardship across Delaware.

The Delmarva fox squirrel, once endangered, is a conservation success story in Delaware. Through habitat restoration, tree planting, and preservation efforts, volunteers and programs like the Black Forest Wildlife Coexist Program are ensuring this species continues to thrive for generations to come.

While helping create trails through preserved lands, I learned about habitat fragmentation — how urban development breaks continuous habitats into smaller patches. From lower biodiversity to higher extinction risks, the impact on wildlife is serious. Here’s why preserving open space matters.