Love at First Sight

Bedford gardener protects 390 acres with the Central Virginia Land Conservancy

By Kyle Simpson

It was love at first sight.

Wendy Schumann knew the very first time she saw her farm off Big Island Highway that it was where she wanted to live. The property was not even for sale at the time, but she made inquiries through a local realtor and six months later was able to purchase the farm that had captured her attention. Having grown up in a small town, its scenic views and quiet mountainside setting reminded Wendy of her childhood and offered the chance to escape from the noise and bustle of busy Virginia Beach, where she lived and worked at the time.

Wendy Schumann recently partnered with the Central Virginia Land Conservancy to protect that farm, 390 acres of forest and farmland in Bedford County, forever.

Schumann’s land, which rises several hundred feet from Big Island Highway up the eastern face of Suck Mountain, will be protected from development in perpetuity.

An avid gardener, Wendy had always been attracted to tending the land and conservation. “I see it all here,” she remarked. Deer, bear, fox, coyotes, turkeys, skunks, opossums, and flying squirrels have all been regular sights around the property. Her gardens were kept strictly organic, with fresh vegetables just outside making their way into the kitchen for many a meal.

Protecting her beloved home through a conservation easement provides peace of mind about her land even as she moves on.

For more information, on how you can help save our beautiful scenery, or to learn how you, can conserve your own rural land, call 540-985-0000 ext. 2, or e-mail ebender@brlcva.org.