There are numerous horse farms and a few dairy farmers left, many who have sold the development rights to their farms to preserve the land. A good portion of land in the township is deed-restricted through agreements with the Brandywine Conservancy, a land preservation group. The township had about 1,300 people in 1994, and unlike much of Chester County, actually lost population.
Development is scarce because of tough zoning ordinances.
The deed restrictions, lack of public sewer and water, and a low water table have limited development. The township welcomes growth, but only on their terms. The township building is in Gum Tree, the only village in the township. Outside the township building there is a 5-acre park, surrounded by huge oak trees that date back 200 years or more, and playground equipment and ballfields. The township is proud of its Little League program.