Maplecroft Farm

The rolling pastures and croplands of Maplecroft Farm typify the rural landscape that is vanishing from the state’s north shore. In April, 2009 The Trust for Public Land reached an agreement with the Raymond family to conserve these nearly 250 acres of land along scenic Route 133 (Essex Road). The agreement gave us until April 30, 2010 to raise $5.1 million fund raise and purchase conservation restrictions that permanently protect the land from development.

The land offers diverse and valuable benefits; farmland that will remain productive through agricultural restrictions, natural resources including surface water, salt marsh habitat, and drinking water for the adjacent Ipswich Town Well are secure under conservation restrictions. And the community will retain use of the popular Raymond Fields for athletic events, including soccer.