On September 23, the Piedmont Fox Hounds Conservation Fund hosted its annual Landowner Appreciation Reception at the Salem Showgrounds in Upperville, Va. The gathering brought together members of the foxhunting community, conservation supporters, and friends to recognize the generosity and stewardship of the Piedmont landowners whose commitment makes foxhunting, and the preservation of our rural landscape, possible.

As PFHCF Chair Dulany Morison remarked, “Without our gracious landowners opening their land, we would not be able to share our stunning historic landscape with our followers and the wider public, which is critical to expanding our support for its preservation across the northern Piedmont region.”

The evening served as a heartfelt thank-you to those who open their land throughout the hunting season, providing access to some of the most beautiful countryside in Virginia. Beyond their hospitality, these landowners embody a deep sense of responsibility for the care of the land, its history, and its wildlife. Their efforts in conservation, land management, and preservation safeguard not only open space and habitat but also the cultural heritage that defines the Piedmont region.

Over 100 guests enjoyed an evening of camaraderie, conversation, and shared appreciation for the partnerships that sustain both the land and the sport. The PFH Conservation Fund extends its sincere gratitude to all who make this enduring collaboration possible, and whose dedication ensures that the landscape and traditions of the Piedmont will thrive for generations to come.

A special thank you goes to Master of Foxhounds and landowner Shelby Bonnie for graciously hosting the event at his beautiful Salem Farm, providing the perfect setting for this celebration of community, conservation, and countryside tradition.