As Davidson County’s population continues to grow, more family farms are being converted into housing subdivisions. Thanks to the late Dr. Douglass Everhart’s forward thinking and estate planning, future development will not occur on his 120-acre farm because he opted to protect it with a permanent conservation easement. 

Those fortunate enough to own family land often wonder about what will happen to their beloved property after they are no longer able to care for it. Everhart guaranteed his family farm will always be protected by donating a conservation easement through his estate. Three Rivers Land Trust is honored to be part of fulfilling Everhart’s last wishes. Thanks to him, Wendy Hill Farm will never be subdivided or developed. Future generations will be able to enjoy the beautiful Davidson County farm. 

“Generations of the Everhart family have enjoyed this unspoiled farmland. Although he traveled the world, Doug returned home to help his father at Wendy Hill Farm. During the 20 plus years that he taught school, he spent summers raising horse hay and working the fields. He loved this land, and preserving it was vitally important. He wished to spend his final days there and watch nature at its finest. He was fortunate to do just that until he passed on Nov. 7, 2023,” said Kathy Hunt, a longtime friend of Everhart’s. 

“Davidson County is developing rapidly, but that development won’t take place on this farm. Three Rivers Land Trust staff understands the importance of local family farms and hopes that more folks will consider conserving their land like Dr. Everhart,”Executive Director Travis Morehead said.  

Kyle Shores, land protection specialist, added, “While we were not lucky enough to meet Dr. Everhart during his lifetime, we are able to know him through the land and legacy he left behind. Three Rivers Land Trust is thankful for Dr. Everhart’s commitment to conservation and his love for his family farm.”

This conservation project was made possible by a generous conservation easement donation by Everhart and the support of Three Rivers and Trust members. If you would like to find out how to conserve your property or support TRLT’s conservation mission please contact Director of Conservation Emily Callicutt at emily@trlt.org.