Land purchase near Helena advances

HELENA (AP) — The Lewis and Clark County Commission has agreed to contribute $205,000 toward the purchase of 286 acres prized for its recreational and wildlife value.

Ultimately, the land 18 miles northeast of Helena and near York will be conveyed to the U.S. Forest Service.

The land is valued at more than $660,000 and belongs to the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation.

Andy Bauer, of the Prickly Pear Land Trust, which spearheaded the project, said the land is anticipated to be completely in the care of the Forest Service possibly by October.

Funds from the county being used in the purchase will come from an open space bond. Various foundations, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Forest Service also are contributing to the land purchase.